NECK LESION IN BIG CATS - EXAMINATIONS IN THE LEOPARD (PANTHERA-PARDUS)

Macroscopical investigation, radiologic examination, electron microsco py, rhodamin B staining and hardness determination of the dentin (KHN) suggested that ''neck lesion'' occurs in leopards and also in other w ild cats. Based on these results, it is concluded that the osteoclasti c resorption processes (external/internal root resorption) in the cat jaw are not restricted to the destruction of the hard tooth substance on the neck of the teeth, but that in most cases roots and periodontiu m (cement, periodontal membrane, tooth socket) are involved and that t he resorption process starts in the apical regions. Cause is always a cronic inflammation of the periodontium. Thus it is comprehensible tha t rarely, ii ever, filling therapy can be considered in the early phas e of a resorptive process. in every case, the situation of the whole t ooth and the surrounding bony and fibrous structures must be evaluated radiologically. It must, however, be considered that not all lesions are radiographically visible. Origin and activity of the osteoclasts a re described. Further studies of teeth with odontoclastic lesions as w ell as of the respective surrounding tissue are needed to further eluc idate this disease.