Disorder - Polyarthritis

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Osteoarthritis; Spinal disorders (IVDD); Hip dysplasia

Alternative Names
Rheumatoid arthritis; Reiter's disease

Presenting Signs

Polyarthritis refers to swollen, inflamed and painful joints occurring at multiple sites. The painful joints can cause lameness and reluctance to walk. Polyarthritis in the cat is classified mainly as an immune-based disease. Four main syndromes are described including rheumatoid arthritis, feline periosteal proliferative polyarthritis, feline systemic lupus erythematosus and feline idiopathic polyarthritis. Other causes of polyarthritis include infections such as calicivirus and Mycoplasma gateae.

Cats at Risk

All cats, but there appears to be a prevalence in males, between 1-5 years of age.

Treatment

Medical: anti-inflammatory agents such as NSAIDs; immunosuppressive drugs (e.g. prednisolone). Also weight loss (to relieve pressure on joints)

PubMed References
Polyarthritis

Contributor
Bryan Benshoof