Endochondral ossification is the normal process of bone growth in which the cartilege is replaced by bone in the early development of fetus. Osteochondrosis is a pathological condition in which normal endochondral ossification, the metamorphoses of cartilage to bone, is disturbed. The disturbance is often due to a disruption in the blood supply to the bone. The result is retention of excessive cartilage at the site as the process of endochondral ossification is halted, but cartilage continues to grow. The end result is abnormally thick regions of cartilage that are less resistant to mechanical stress, as opposed to the stronger and denser bone.
The term osteochondrosis refers to an abnormal development of the cartilage on the end of a bone in the joint Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD or OD) is an inflammatory condition that occurs when the diseased cartilage separates from the underlying bone. It most commonly affects the shoulder joint but the elbow, hip, or knee (stifle) may also be involved.
This condition is common in giant and large breed dogs including great Danes, Labrador retrievers, Newfoundlands, rottweilers, Bernese mountain dogs, English setters, and old English sheepdogs.
Common symptoms associated with this disorder inclulde:
Lameness (most common symptom)
Onset of lameness may be sudden or gradual, and may involve one or more limbs
Lameness becomes worse after exercise
Unable to bear weight on affected limb
Swelling at joints
Pain in limb, especially on manipulation of joints involved
Wasting of muscles with chronic lameness
