Canine distemper can cause enamel hypoplasia in neonates.

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only with hyperkeratosis
• D. Only with uveitis

Answer: (A)

Enamel hypoplasia can result from distemper because the virus can damage the enamel-forming cells (ameloblasts) during the time enamel is being laid down. If a puppy is infected while enamel is actively forming, the enamel matrix is disrupted, leading to pits or thinning that are visible on erupted teeth. In puppies, this critical window spans the late gestational period into early life for deciduous teeth and continues for permanent teeth after birth. Signs like hyperkeratosis or uveitis are other manifestations of distemper and do not determine whether enamel hypoplasia will occur. If infection happens after enamel formation is complete, enamel hypoplasia does not develop.