Craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO) is most prevalent in certain families of West Highland White Terriers, but also known in other Terrier breeds. CMO is a painful proliferative bone disease affecting dogs of both sexes less than 1 year of age. Clinically, the disease is characterized by intermittent episodes of concurrent fever and painful mandibular swelling. An X-ray examination will show mandibular bone proliferation. Commonly, the first signs of CMO disease onset are pain symptoms during feed uptake frequently accompanied by periods of fever. We would like to investigate the genetic cause of CMO in order to develop a DNA test, which will allow the unequivocal diagnosis of carriers. For our research we ask breeders and owners of affected dogs to donate samples of the affected individuals and their relatives.

Contact: Cord Drögemüller