Feline Immune-Mediated Joint Disease – NAVLE Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Immune-mediated joint disease (IMJD) encompasses a spectrum of inflammatory arthropathies in cats resulting from aberrant immune responses targeting synovial tissues. While less common than in dogs, feline IMJD is increasingly recognized and represents an important differential for cats presenting with lameness, stiffness, and joint effusion. Unlike dogs where immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA) predominates, cats are more likely to have infectious causes of polyarthritis - making thorough diagnostic workup essential before initiating immunosuppressive therapy.

Feline IMJD can be classified as erosive or non-erosive based on radiographic findings, with distinct conditions in each category requiring different management approaches and carrying different prognoses. Understanding these classifications is critical for NAVLE success.

Classification of Feline Immune-Mediated Joint Disease

Feline IMJD is classified based on radiographic findings into erosive and non-erosive forms. This classification is essential for determining prognosis and treatment approach.