In all cases of joint effusion, the fluid in the joint is abnormal in either cell type or viscosity (thickness). The amount of fluid within the joint can vary greatly, from a visually imperceptible amount to a very distended joint. Joint effusion is caused by an increase in fluid within the joint space. Since there are many causes of joint effusion an accurate diagnosis is crucial for correct treatment. Some dogs with polyarthritis have recurrent episodes making diagnosis more difficult. Polyarthritis is a systemic disease that may be acute or chronic and it usually causes an animal to feel ill. Animals with polyarthritis may walk very stiffly or have shifting leg lameness. Rarely, animals with joint effusion will not have obviously distended joints and require arthrocentesis and cytologic evaluation of the joint fluid for diagnosis.Īnother important part in evaluating an animal with joint effusion is whether or not there are multiple joints involved (polyarthritis). In these dogs a definitive diagnosis can often be achieved by a good history, physical exam and perhaps a radiograph. On the other hand, dogs with acute or chronic joint effusion that are still feeling fairly well are more likely to have conditions that are easier to diagnose. Ill animals may often require extensive diagnostic testing before a definitive diagnosis can be made. Systemic illness should be expected in ill animals with joint effusion. Reluctance to walk or even get up is a common complaint. Animals feeling ill may be lethargic, anorexic, febrile, and they commonly have multiple joints that are affected. One of the most important observations to make when dealing with joint effusion is if the dog is feeling ill. Typically, the lameness improves over the course of the day. Many animals with this type of joint effusion are more lame after lying down or first thing in the morning. The most common cause of chronic distention is degenerative osteoarthritis and may occur in multiple joints. Chronic joint distention may or may not be associated with lameness. External wounds may be noted and the animal is usually lame and painful at the swollen joint. Many times, acute joint swelling is the result of trauma and usually involves only a single joint. Joint effusion may be a sudden (acute) occurrence or a long-standing (chronic) problem. More Information on Canine Joint Effusion Contact your veterinarian to see if giving a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as aspirin, would be indicated to relieve the pain until seeking veterinary care. Once cleaned, a light wrap may be applied. If possible, foreign debris can be removed. If a wound is noted, it can be cleaned with warm soapy water or hydrogen peroxide. In acute joint swelling, especially if the joint is warm, cold water compresses may be applied to reduce the swelling. In cases of acute joint swelling, restricted physical activity is always advised. External wounds may be cleaned and bandaged.Pending a definitive diagnosis, certain treatments may be appropriate: Arthrocentesis of the affected joint or jointsĪn accurate diagnosis is needed for proper therapy.If a more systemic illness is suspected, additional diagnostics might include: Many times a diagnosis can be made on the basis of the physical exam findings, with or without radiographs. Additional tests include radiographs (x-rays) of the affected joint. It is the most important part of the work up in evaluating an animal with joint effusion. Many animals with joint effusion in multiple joints often have a very stiff gait and appear to be “walking on egg shells.” Diagnosis of Joint Swelling in DogsĪ complete physical examination and accurate history is critical for accurate diagnosis. Signs of Joint Effusion (Swelling) in dogs may include: Chronic degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis.The general causes of joint effusion include: This increase in joint fluid often leads to a distention of the joint capsule and a swelling of the joint. Joint effusion is an increase in fluid within the joint space.
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