Definition:
Craniomandibular osteopathy, commonly known as the Lion’s Jaw, is a developmental disease that occurs in dogs, which causes extensive changes on the skull and mandible. This disease is characterized by the replacement of immature bones at the inner and outer parts of the affected bones. Occurring between three to eight months, breeds commonly affected include the Boston Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Scottish Terrier and West Highland White Terrier. It rarely occurs in large breeds, but it has been recorded to affect various breeds.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is made by assessing medical history, performing a physical exam and through radiographs. Biopsies may be necessary for larger dog breeds to distinguish it from other diseases like osteomyelitis, neoplasia and hypertrophic osteodystrophy.
Treatment:
There is no available treatment for craniomandibular osteopathy, which could help stop or change the progression of the disease. However, therapies (pain relievers, antibiotics and inflammatory drugs) are available to keep the affected dogs comfortable. Severe cases may need a stomach tube for the dog to survive.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of craniomandibular osteopathy include difficulties in eating, drooling, pain and firm inflammation of the jaw.
Causes:
Craniomandibular osteopathy is an inherited disease. Canine distemper and E.coli infection has been reported to be a possible cause of the disease
