Disease overview

Craniomandibular osteopathy is an inherited condition characterized by bone swelling during the growth of the skull and jaw. This is a self-limiting condition that is extremely painful when a dog is experiencing symptoms. Though uncommon, this condition is typically seen in smaller breeds.

Gene name

SLC37A2

Inheritance

Autosomal dominant with incomplete penetrance

Signs and symptoms

Affected dogs show signs of pain associated with the jaw, such as during eating or from jaw movement when barking. Excessive salivation and swelling may be present. The dog may present with intermittent fever. This is a self-limiting condition, and affected dogs typically grow out of it by one year of age.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will review health history and conduct a thorough exam that includes clinical signs to help diagnose this condition. Laboratory testing and X-rays may be indicated. Genetic testing is necessary to determine if there is an underlying genetic cause, which can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Breeds at higher risk

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Citations

Hytönen MK, Arumilli M, Lappalainen AK, Owczarek-Lipska M, Jagannathan V, Hundi S, Salmela E, Venta P, Sarkiala E, Jokinen T, Gorgas D, Kere J, Nieminen P, Drögemüller C, Lohi H. Molecular Characterization of Three Canine Models of Human Rare Bone Diseases: Caffey, van den Ende-Gupta, and Raine Syndromes. PLoS Genet. 2016 May 17;12(5):e1006037. doi: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006037. PMID: 27187611; PMCID: PMC4871343.

Letko A, Leuthard F, Jagannathan V, Corlazzoli D, Matiasek K, Schweizer D, Hytönen MK, Lohi H, Leeb T, Drögemüller C. Whole Genome Sequencing Indicates Heterogeneity of Hyperostotic Disorders in Dogs. Genes (Basel). 2020 Feb 4;11(2):163. doi: 10.3390/genes11020163. PMID: 32033218; PMCID: PMC7074049.

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.