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Canine Rheumatoid ArthritisCanine rheumatoid arthritis is a type of immune-mediated arthritis that occurs mostly in toy and small breed dogs. This page
looks at the symptoms, causes, and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in dogs.
Rheumatoid arthritis in dogs is a kind of immune-mediated joint disease. Another example of immune-mediated joint disease is
systemic lupus erythematosus.
In immune-mediated joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, the dog's body mistakenly treats some of its own protein as foreign protein. Thus, the immune system
produces antibodies that attack the cartilage surface, causing inflammation and pain. The body then tries to rid itself of the injurious immune complexes, but manages
to only create more damage to the joint. Eventually, the cartilage and even the bone in the joint surfaces are worn away. Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of "erosive
arthritis", which means that in addition to inflammation, cartilage and joint surfaces are also destroyed.
The exact reason for this abnormal immune response in rheumatoid arthritis is unclear. However, it may be a result of infection, digestive system disease, or even
cancer. Sometimes, however, there is no other additional disease.
Canine rheumatoid arthritis is rather rare and primarily occurs in toy and small breed dogs, such as Miniature Poodles and Shetland Sheepdogs at approximately 4 years of
age.
Canine rheumatoid arthritis generally affects several joints. It is characterized by stiffness and shifting
lameness. The lameness may be mild or very severe to the point
where the dog cannot walk. In some cases, the lameness comes on suddenly. Sometimes, continued lameness and stiffness can lead to muscle atropy in the affected limb.
There is also swelling of the smaller joints, particularly the wrists and hocks.
Other accompanying signs and symptoms include:
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