Craniomandibular Osteopathy, CMO
A noncancerous, proliferative bone disease that commonly affects the lower jaw and tympanic bullae, CMO is best known in the West Highland White Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Cairn Terrier; though it has been observed sporadically in larger dog breeds.
-
Signs and symptoms
The first signs of this condition are difficulty or discomfort chewing due to thickening and tenderness of the lower jaw. A fever may also be present.
Signs are first recognized in juveniles.Uncover health risks with Embark
Embark Breed + Health Test
- Regular Price
$199
- Sale Price
- $118
Embark for Breeders dog DNA test kits
- Sale Price
- $119-$139 per test
-
Diagnosis
Genetic testing and clinical signs can be used to diagnose this condition.
-
Treatment
While affected dogs can suffer from pain or malnutrition during the proliferative phase of CMO, the disease does appear to slow and sometimes completely recede once the dog reaches adulthood.
-
What to do if your dog is at risk
Actions
- Talk to your vet about your dog’s CMO result so you can plan appropriate monitoring and treatment.
- Feed soft foods if chewing is painful, and avoid hard toys or treats that could worsen discomfort.
- Make sure your dog is resting comfortably and stays on their prescribed pain and anti-inflammatory medications as directed.
- Some dogs improve as they reach maturity, while others may need ongoing care to stay comfortable.
-
Genetic Information
This mutation was first described in West Highland White Terriers (WHWT), Cairn Terriers and Scottish Terriers.
This mutation has an incomplete dominant mode of inheritance, meaning dogs with one or two copies of the variant are at increased risk of this disease. However, dogs with one copy of the variant likely have less severe clinical signs than a dog with two copies of the variant.
Gene names:
SLC37A2 (Exon 15) ‐ chr
Inheritance type:
incomplete dominance
Citations:
-
Breeds affected
This health condition affects the following breeds
Learn about your dog’s unique genetic health
Dog owners
Breed identification, health and trait insights, personalized care recommendations, and the world’s first canine relative finder—all in one leading dog DNA test.
Learn about the report for dog ownersShop the test
Breeding programs
Embark’s test for breeding programs is one comprehensive DNA test designed with your needs in mind.
Learn about the report for breedersShop the test
