Symptoms & Treatments for Dog Rheumatoid Arthritis: A C

Section 1: Symptoms of Canine Rheumatoid Arthritis

The early signs of canine rheumatoid arthritis often manifest as limping and swelling around the joints, accompanied by a lack of energy, fever, and decreased appetite. The severity of limping can vary from mild to severe, and episodes may recur. As the disease progresses, the cartilage within the joints can be further eroded, leading to osteoporosis and pronounced swelling beneath the cartilage. In the later stages, the joint space may become narrowed, with the edges being eroded, and there may be partial or complete dislocations.

Section 2: Diagnostic Methods for Canine Rheumatoid Arthritis

Any dog with noninfectious, erosive polyarthritis should be suspected of having rheumatoid arthritis. The synovial fluid from affected joints is typically thin and cloudy, with an increased cell count and a high proportion of neutrophils, and poor clotting ability. The RA factor test, with an antibody titer of 1:16 or higher, is considered positive. Approximately 20% to 70% of dogs with the disease undergo rheumatoid arthritis testing. There may be slight falsepositive results in other systemic inflammatory diseases. Biopsy of the synovium, which shows hyperplasia, hypertrophy, and severe infiltration of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and macrophages, can also be indicative. Negative synovial fluid and synovial culture; combined with typical clinical symptoms, Xray findings, negative RA culture, positive RA detection, and characteristic biopsy, can confirm the diagnosis of RA.

Section 3: Treatment Approaches for Canine Rheumatoid Arthritis

The goal of treatment is to alleviate pain, control inflammation, prevent joint damage, and improve joint function. Aspirin is a commonly used medication for arthritis in clinical settings, offering both antiinflammatory and analgesic effects. The recommended dose is 25mg per kilogram of body weight, given three times daily, for a duration of two weeks. After two weeks of maintenance therapy, the dose can be halved. If aspirin is ineffective, immunosuppressants such as cyclophosphamide, corticosteroids, and azathioprine may be used. The initial dose is typically 2 to 4mg per kilogram of body weight per day. If symptoms improve, the dose can be reduced and may be continued longterm.

Other therapeutic options include weight management, rest, reduced activity, synovectomy, and joint immobilization.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on canine arthritis, click here to read about Canine Arthritis Symptoms.