Craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO) is an uncommon, noninflammatory, non-cancerous bone disease affecting primarily young dogs, typically between 3 and 6 months of age. It involves abnormal bone growth in the skull, particularly the mandible (lower jaw).
Understanding Craniomandibular Osteopathy
CMO results in proliferative (excessive) bone formation, leading to thickening and enlargement of the affected bones. This can cause pain, difficulty eating, and other related symptoms. The exact cause is unknown, but a genetic component is suspected, especially in predisposed breeds.
Key Characteristics:
- Nature: Noninflammatory, non-neoplastic (not cancerous) proliferative bone disease.
- Age of Onset: Typically affects young dogs, 3-6 months old.
- Location: Primarily affects bones of the skull, especially the mandible (lower jaw).
- Breed Predisposition: More common in West Highland White Terriers, Scottish Terriers, and Cairn Terriers.
- Cause: Unknown, but likely genetic in origin.
Symptoms of CMO:
- Pain: Jaw pain and sensitivity to touch.
- Swelling: Noticeable swelling of the jaw.
- Difficulty Eating: Reluctance to eat, or difficulty opening the mouth fully.
- Drooling: Excessive salivation.
- Fever: May be present in some cases.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, radiographs (X-rays) of the skull, and sometimes advanced imaging like CT scans. Treatment focuses on pain management and supportive care. In some cases, the bone remodeling may slow or stop as the dog matures. Medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to remove excessive bone growth.
Prognosis:
The prognosis for CMO varies depending on the severity of the condition. Some dogs experience spontaneous remission as they mature, while others may require long-term management of pain and discomfort.
