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Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis (IMPA)
MusculoskeletalCanineFelineNew
Key Points
  • Immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA) is a sterile inflammatory condition of synovial joints 
    • Classed as either non-erosive (types I-IV) or erosive
  • Most commonly seen in dogs in veterinary practice
  • Clinical signs include shifting-leg lameness, joint stiffness, pain on palpation, pyrexia, lethargy and general malaise
    • Other signs may be seen depending on whether there is an underlying inflammatory trigger
  • Arthrocentesis is essential for differentiating sterile and septic arthritis but cultures are also recommended for identifying sources of infection
  • Treatment relies on immunosuppression with both steroid and steroid-sparing options
    • In secondary IMPA, controlling the underlying trigger is essential for preventing relapse
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Septic arthritis
  2. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy
  3. Panosteitis
  4. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  5. Osteoarthritis (OA)
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →