Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCP)

What is LCP?

LCP is a condition where there is degeneration of the femoral head and neck leading to weakening an collapse of the hip joint and arthritis.

How does my dog get LCP?

The specific cause for LCP is still unknown. Evidence indicates infarction of vessels and subsequent death to the bone and collapse. What causes these infarctions is still being investigated. The information and evidence does hint that a hereditary predisposition does exist.

How do I know if my dog has LCP?

Small breeds between 3 months and one year of either gender are most commonly affected. Lameness on one leg that has a gradual two to three month onset. The lameness may be both weight bearing an non-weight bearing. Trauma is not usually reported. Your veterinarian will manipulate the affected leg and be able to identify pain, crepitation, and loss of thigh muscle with LCP. Radiographs are needed to confirm the condition and identify its significance.

What can I do about LCP?

The treatment of choice is a surgical procedure to remove the femoral head and neck. Post operative care actually encourages early and vigorous exercise. Conservative pain management helps to improve the signs of lameness but does NOT cure the condition. Surgery offers a very high prognosis for full recovery.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my dog from getting LCP?

Besides judicious breed selection, minimizing trauma to the pelvic region during the time of growth and development will minimize the chance of trauma causing LCP.

Are there certain breeds that get LCP more often?

Toy breeds, terriers, Manchester terriers, miniature pinschers, toy poodles, Lakeland terriers, West Highland White terriers, Cairn terriers.