Disorder - Ankylosis, generalised

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Presenting Signs

The rare inherited abnormal fusion of bones within the joint spaces causes loss or decrease in joint motion. The exact cause of generalised ankylosis is no known. It is most likely due to a genetic defect that begins affecting joint development during early embryonic life in the uterus. One or more cats in a litter may be affected. It commonly occurs in the jaw causing inability to open the mouth, difficulty eating, and weight loss. It can also be seen as stiff limb movement, painful walking and difficulty rising when it affects leg joints. Cats can also develop ankylosis from inflammation of the joints, and after trauma to the joints. This is not genetic when this occurs.

Treatment

Surgical correction of ankylosed joints is the treatment of choice. The objective is to establish a normal joint motion and prevent recurrence. In cats surgery on ankylosed jaws is most common and outcomes are usually satisfactory. Medical treatment is generally ineffective.

PubMed References
Ankylosis, generalised

Contributor
Lauren Porter