LUMBOSACRAL TRANSITIONAL VERTEBRA AND UNILATERAL MEDIAL LUXATION OF THE PATELLA IN A FELINE - CASE REPORT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25110/arqvet.v29i2.2026-12621Keywords:
Felines, Radiography, Transitional vertebra.Abstract
Lumbosacral transitional vertebra and patellar luxation are uncommon conditions in cats. A lumbosacral transitional vertebra is an abnormally formed vertebra between the last normal lumbar vertebra and the first normal sacral vertebra. This disorder is classified as congenital and presents morphological characteristics of both lumbar and sacral vertebrae. A hereditary predisposition has also been suggested, particularly in German Shepherds. Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae are the most common congenital alteration of the lumbosacral junction and significantly influence pelvic anatomy. They predispose animals to vertebral instability and cauda equina syndrome, increasing the risk of hip dysplasia. Patellar luxation may be unilateral or bilateral and can result from congenital malformations or occur secondary to trauma. This study reports a feline treated at a veterinary clinic in Rio de Janeiro that presented with right hindlimb lameness and a radiographic diagnosis of a lumbosacral transitional vertebra and unilateral medial patellar luxation.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Alexandre Martins Ferreira, Edmilla Pastor Marquez, Anieli Vidal Stocco, Bianca da Silva Salmon Pompeu, Hélio José Santos Bagetti Filho, Marcelo Abidu-Figueiredo

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