Congenital Malformations of Vertebral Articular Processes in Dogs

Articular process anomalies are considered congenital. Their occurrence in specific breeds may be indicative of undetermined genetics. Clinical significance varies and is interdependent upon location, function and anatomy. Etiology, uniform nomenclature and classification of vertebral articular process anomalies in the dog are lacking; however, recent efforts are beginning to address this deficit. This author proposes that the term articular process dysplasia appropriately encompasses the spectrum of anomalies in severity as well as including those affecting both the cranial and caudal articular processes. The general category description of articular process dypslasia doesn't preclude, but rather allows for more specific designations.