Radiological Assessment of DISH in the Lumbar and Lumbosacral Vertebrae of Dogs

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a non-inflammatory disorder characterised by extensive bony proliferation along the axial skeleton. This study evaluates the radiological features of DISH in the lumbar and lumbosacral vertebrae of dogs. Radiographic records from the University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine were analysed for dogs older than one year over a 12-month period. Thirteen cases of DISH were identified, predominantly in large breed dogs, with no cases observed in small breeds. Mixed-breed dogs, Labrador Retrievers, and Boxers were the most frequently affected breeds, and incidence was highest in dogs aged 7–10 years. The hallmark radiographic findings included flowing calcifications along the ventrolateral aspects of at least four contiguous vertebral bodies, with preservation of disc height. The most pronounced changes were observed between the L3 and L4 vertebrae. These findings highlight the importance of recognising DISH as a distinct entity in veterinary practice to avoid misclassification as severe spondylosis.