In dogs, hip dysplasia leading to OA occurs primarily due to what process?

In dogs, hip dysplasia leading to OA occurs primarily due to what process?

• A. Acute infection
• B. Autoimmune disease
• C. Abnormal joint mechanics causing cartilage deterioration
• D. Nutritional deficiency

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that hip OA from hip dysplasia arises mainly from abnormal joint mechanics that wear down the cartilage over time. In a dysplastic hip, laxity and misalignment let the femoral head not sit well in the acetabulum, so weight-bearing contact is uneven. This abnormal loading causes focal cartilage wear, micro-damage, and loss of the cartilage matrix. Once the cartilage deteriorates, the underlying bone becomes exposed and responds with sclerosis and osteophyte formation, while the joint lining becomes inflamed—creating a self-perpetuating degenerative cycle. This mechanical origin explains why OA develops in the hip despite otherwise normal systemic health, and it’s distinct from processes driven primarily by infection, autoimmune inflammation, or nutritional deficiencies.

The key idea is that hip OA from hip dysplasia arises mainly from abnormal joint mechanics that wear down the cartilage over time. In a dysplastic hip, laxity and misalignment let the femoral head not sit well in the acetabulum, so weight-bearing contact is uneven. This abnormal loading causes focal cartilage wear, micro-damage, and loss of the cartilage matrix. Once the cartilage deteriorates, the underlying bone becomes exposed and responds with sclerosis and osteophyte formation, while the joint lining becomes inflamed—creating a self-perpetuating degenerative cycle. This mechanical origin explains why OA develops in the hip despite otherwise normal systemic health, and it’s distinct from processes driven primarily by infection, autoimmune inflammation, or nutritional deficiencies.