Chronic Proliferative Osteoarthritis in the Horse - A Case Report

Abstract

Chronic osteoarthritis of the pastern joint has a significant role in affecting the musculoskeletal system and is a recurrent cause of lameness in the equine athlete manifested by chronic lameness and thorough clinical and radiographic examination. This case report describes the evolution of chronic proliferative ossified osteoarthritis and periarthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the front limb of a 12-year-old gelding. The careful clinical examination aimed to detect the site of the lesion, which is then confirmed by radiography that revealed extensive periarticular new bone formation over the proximal interphalangeal joint. This affection causes progressive deterioration of articular cartilage, accompanied by bone and soft-tissue periarticular changes. Control radiographic examination after a period of 10 months showed the extension of the lesion and the severe appearance of bone evolution and several medical approaches have been undertaken without improvement of the clinical condition of the horse. Several medical therapies are used in synergy with the palliative goal of reducing lameness and relieving pain, but most are of limited duration and do not stop the negative progression of the disease process. Once joint damage is advanced, it is difficult to remedy.