[Non-infectious unilateral wing lameness of pigeons, so called "Schieffliegersyndrom". First clinical and pathological results]. / Belastungsbedingte, nichtinfektiöse unilaterale Buggelenksarthropathie der Brieftauben ("Schieffliegersyndrom"). Erste Resultate zu klinischen Symptomen und pathologischen Veränderungen.

OBJECTIVE: After medium- and long-distance flights and following the first training units of the year, a unilateral injuring of the shoulder joint is observed in racing pigeons. The objective of the study was to discuss the pathogenesis and aetiology of the damage. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In 35 pigeons suffering from unilateral wing lameness, the affected shoulder joints were examined microbiologically and histopathologically. Additionally, both shoulder joints of 12 affected pigeons were examined pathologically and histopathologically. RESULTS: Joint capsule, articular cartilage, tendons and bone structures displayed pathological changes. CONCLUSION: The non-infectious unilateral wing lameness of pigeons appears to be a stress-induced mechanical damage of the shoulder joint. The different structures of the joint are over-extended by the physical/mechanical influences during longer flights.