Unilateral premature closure of distal radial growth plate due to hematogenous osteomyelitis in a German shepherd dog

Premature closure of a growth plate can result in angular deformity, limb shortening, or both. The condition, particularly in the distal radius and ulna, is not uncommon in dogs; the distal ulnar physis is commonly affected. Causes of premature closure may include growth plate trauma, abnormal nutrition, hereditary factors, and infection. A 6-month-old male German shepherd dog, weighting 19 kg, was referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the Shahrekord University, with a 5-day history of lethargy, anorexia, and persistent pyrexia associated with left forelimb lameness. Survey radiography revealed the premature closure of distal radial growth plate and moth-eaten osteolysis pattern of affected limb in comparison of normal forelimb. The present report describes clinical, paraclinical, and radiological findings of premature growth plate due to osteomyelitis conditions. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2008.