Bone/Joint Issues in the Neapolitan Mastiff

• Panosteitis

Also known as "pano" or "growing pains" usually seen between 3 and 15 months of age,  most common in male puppies.  Signs are intermittent lameness from moderate to severe, limping on different limbs at different times.  Most pano resolves on its own, you can treat symptoms with an anti-inflammatory Deramaxx or the like (Note: NSAIDS can have awful side effects) and provide lots of rest.  A high quality joint supplement is also recommended; FluidFlex, SynFlex or Glycoflex.

• Osteochondritis Dissecans

If the puppy is active and traumatizes this soft, decayed area, cracks, or fissures, form and extend into the normal cartilage until a large cartilage flap forms. At this stage, pain is present in the joint every time the patient tries to walk. When the cartilage flap falls into perfect position discomfort is minimal. As it shifts position, pain becomes acute, with joint swelling that is increasingly sensitive. Osteochondritis refers to presence of the inflammatory reaction in the bone marrow and joint, while dissecans refers to the flap of cartilage that is dissected away from its base.” (taken from Southern California Surgical Group).  Most often this occurs in the front shoulder/elbow of the Neapolitan Mastiff puppy.

• Ununited anconeal process

Ununited anconeal process is a failure of the growth center of the anconeal process, in the elbow joint, to unite properly with the ulna. This fusion should be completed by 16 to 24 weeks of age. Instead of a normal bony union, the ununited anconeal process represents a large piece of bone connected to the ulna by a strand of fibrous tissue. The diagnosis is confirmed by radiography. Surgical removal of this unstable bony fragment minimizes progressive arthritis and is indicated as soon as possible to prevent further joint degeneration” (Taken from Southern California Veterinary Surgical Group).

• Dysplasia

As with all giant breeds of dogs hip function is of great importance.  Unfortunately, after over 30 years of research no genetic marker has been identified for hip dysplasia.  That is not to say that that hip screening for breeding stock isn't valid. Breeders should screen their stock with either OFA or Pennhip or via a private radiologist and orthopedic specialist but with the Neapolitan Mastiff we must look at form and function in conjunction with conventional testing.  The Neapolitan has "looser hips" than other breeds and too often is mis-diagnosed as having HD when in fact it is not.  Until more research is done in this area, we would encourage puppy owners to maintain a close relationship with their breeder to discuss any diagnosis and treatment options.