Congenital arthrogryposis associated with musculoskeletal defects in three newborn goats

Abstract

Arthrogryposis as a congenital malformation that refers to the fixed flexion of one or more joints as a result of stiffness or limited movements of multiple joints, change of posture and limb function due to permanent contracture of joints and wasting of muscles that usually occur at early stage of gestation. This report describes congenital arthrogryposis associated with musculoskeletal defects in three newborn goats. Both front and hindlimbs joints were characteristically flexed towards the anterior portion of the body. In addition, ankylosis, reduced muscle mass of limbs and rigidly fixed hindlimbs, lordosis, kyphosis and brachygnathia were observed. There was no definitive evidence of etiology of arthrogryposis, however, it seemed to be infectious, inherited or due to toxic plants. Since there is no recorded history about the mothers of the kids and the limited information available, causes of these defects cannot be determined.