Appeared on
Mersey
Kennels Web Page
Prepared by Jennifer Tomes
Legges-Calves-Perthes is known by a number of
names including legges perthes, and aseptic necrosis. It is a condition that
results in degeneration of the femur. This condition is common to many small
breeds. It has been suggested that Legges Perthes is the small dog's hip
dysplasia.
Legges Perthes results from a lack of blood to
the femur head. As the femur head does not receive an adequate supply of
nourishment the bone begins to die.
The condition generally appears between the ages
of 6 and 9 months. Often, but not always, an injury occurs just before symptoms
appear. Generally, the first symptoms are licking the rear leg, the dog becoming
peevish (as a result of being in pain) and obvious pain while walking. If any
symptoms are evident animals should be brought to their veterinarian for
diagnosis. A x-ray will reveal whether or not the condition is present. In most
cases only one joint is affected, although in approximately 10-15% of cases the
damage is bilateral.
Surgery is the treatment of choice for animals
afflicted with the condition. The femur head and all affected bone matter is
surgically removed. This generally halts the progression of the necrosis. Once
treated, dogs can continue to lead relatively normal lives.
There is some suggestion of a genetic basis for
Legges Perthes, although inheritance of the disorder is likely complex and is
not well understood, and therefore affected dogs should not be used for breeding
purposes.
