A dog with rheumatoid arthritis generally has multiple joints affected. The animal is usually lame, limping or showing other signs of walking difficulty, but not always. The lameness may be mild or very severe to the point where the animal cannot walk. Sometimes the lameness shifts from leg to leg. In some cases, the lameness comes on suddenly and the dog also has a fever and loss of appetite. At other times, the only sign of rheumatoid arthritis is stiffness. The joints affected are swollen and painful. If the lameness has gone on for some time, there may be loss of muscle in that limb (muscle atrophy). Some dogs will have other body systems affected as well as the joints. Some dogs with rheumatoid arthritis also have kidney disease, enlarged lymph nodes, tonsillitis, and pneumonia.
The history and physical exam often lead a veterinarian to suspect rheumatoid arthritis. Radiographs (x-rays) are taken and typically show the loss of bone - the bone often appears like holes have been punched in it. The joint surfaces are often irregular and bony spurs coming off of the bone are often seen. A special blood test can be done to look for the rheumatoid factor. Unfortunately, rheumatoid factor is sometimes present in dogs without rheumatoid arthritis, and not all dogs with rheumatoid arthritis test positive for the factor. The synovial fluid may be analyzed and shows characteristic changes. Cells involved in inflammation are present in large numbers, the fluid is usually cloudy and of a thinner consistency than normal. Biopsies of the tissues within the joint can be made and show characteristic changes.
Diagnosis and treatment vary greatly. Expect to spend at least $500 and $1,000 on tests to diagnose the condition. Long term management costs depend on the severity of the condition, medications used and the size of the dog being treated.
At this point, rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured. The long-term outlook for dogs with rheumatoid arthritis is one of trying to control the signs and prevent further injury to the joint.
Careful monitoring of pets on immunosuppressive drugs is important. They will be more prone to developing infections, and some of these drugs have toxic side effects. The veterinarian will adjust medicine dosages depending on the patient’s response. Rheumatoid arthritis can relapse if medications are tapered too quickly. Frequent follow up and communication with the veterinarian is vital so the correct medication and dosage is used.
There is no way to prevent the disease from occurring.
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