Immune-mediated rheumatic disease in Dogs

Category: Immune System
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 2

Overview

Persistent pain and stiffness in several joints can be part of an immune-mediated rheumatic disorder. This means the immune system appears to contribute to inflammation affecting joints and sometimes other tissues. The syndrome has been described particularly in Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers. Joint symptoms may wax and wane, and some affected dogs also develop muscle pain or skin changes. It can resemble other immune diseases, so a careful veterinary assessment is needed.

Signs to watch for

Stiffness, especially after resting
Limping that shifts between different legs
Painful movement involving several joints
Muscle soreness in some dogs
Crusts on the nose or ears in some dogs

In one clinical study, most dogs first showed signs between ages 1 and 5.

When to get help Arrange a vet visit for recurring stiffness, shifting lameness or pain in several joints.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets examine the joints and muscles and investigate other causes of pain. Blood and urine tests, infection testing and x-rays can help build the picture. An antinuclear antibody test looks for antibodies that react with cell nuclei, but it must be interpreted alongside clinical findings. Sampling joint fluid can help confirm inflammation in multiple joints.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Medium

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling RetrieverMedium · Sporting Group

Inheritance

Not yet known
None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.