Chapter 80 - Medical treatment of joint disease Flashcards
Figure 80-1. Schematic representation of inhibition
of the inflammatory cascade by nonsteroidal antiinflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids.
Figure 80-2. Schematic representation of effects associated with the administration of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). MMP, Matrix metalloproteinase.
Figure 80-3. Schematic representation of the cyclooxygenase isoenzymes and target tissues. PGH2, Prostaglandin H2.
What are the two main goals of medical treatment for osteoarthritis in horses?
Reducing pain (lameness) and minimizing progression of joint deterioration.
What factors influence the optimization of a treatment plan for OA?
Accurate diagnosis, stage of disease, severity, available treatment modalities, and rehabilitation time.
What is the primary action of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in treating joint disease?
Inhibiting the arachidonic acid cascade.
Which specific prostaglandin series is involved in pain and inflammation in damaged joints?
Prostaglandin E (PGE) series.
Why is long-term use of NSAIDs limited in treating joint disease?
Due to renal and gastrointestinal side effects.
What is a significant concern regarding the inhibition of PGE production?
Potential long-term unfavorable effects on cartilage metabolism.
What discovery in the early 1990s advanced the understanding of NSAIDs for OA treatment?
Identification of cyclooxygenase (COX) isoenzymes COX-1 and COX-2.
What role does COX-1 play in the body?
Associated with housekeeping functions and normal physiological functions of the gastrointestinal and renal systems.
How is COX-2 primarily involved in the body?
Associated with inflammatory events driven by macrophages and synovial cells.
What adverse effects are linked to NSAIDs that preferentially inhibit COX-1?
Damage to the gastroduodenal mucosa.
What has research indicated about topical NSAID applications?
They can be clinically beneficial and may reduce systemic side effects.
Which NSAID remains popular for musculoskeletal pain in horses, and why?
Phenylbutazone; due to its cost, ease of administration, and relatively few side effects in short-term use.
What were the findings when comparing phenylbutazone and diclofenac cream in horses with OA?
Phenylbutazone was associated with significantly more pathologic changes.
What effect does phenylbutazone have on μ-opioid receptor (MOR) expression in equine synovial membrane?
It attenuates the upregulation of MOR expression following synovitis.
What is the significance of firocoxib in the treatment of equine OA?
It is a selective COX-2 inhibitor approved for use in horses, effective in controlling inflammation associated with OA.
What concerns arise from stacking NSAIDs like phenylbutazone with flunixin meglumine?
Potential secondary side effects from combining NSAIDs.
How did lameness scores change during a study of firocoxib administration?
Scores improved rapidly within the first 7 days and continued to improve more slowly through 14 days.
What does ongoing research need to focus on regarding NSAIDs?
Determining appropriate dosages and durations of prescription.
How does the pharmacokinetics of firocoxib impact its clinical use?
A loading dose has been shown to maintain a constant drug concentration.
What is the current status of NSAIDs in treating joint inflammation associated with OA in horses?
Continued use is likely, with selective COX-2 inhibitors being utilized more frequently.
What enzyme do corticosteroids inhibit in the arachidonic acid cascade?
Phospholipase A2.
What is a selective action of corticosteroids aside from their effects on the arachidonic acid cascade?
They are selective COX-2 inhibitors.
What three corticosteroid preparations are currently available for equine clinicians?
Methylprednisolone acetate (MPA), triamcinolone acetonide (TA), and compounded betamethasone.
Which corticosteroid preparation showed the most beneficial effects in studies?
Triamcinolone acetonide (TA).
What detrimental effects were noted with methylprednisolone acetate (MPA)?
Detrimental effects on articular cartilage.
What does the lack of measured effects from compounded betamethasone suggest?
It has a less potent effect on joint tissues compared to TA and MPA.
In what context is the use of corticosteroids particularly recommended?
In high-motion joints.
What concerns arise regarding corticosteroids and catastrophic racetrack injuries?
Their ability to mask pain and potentially exacerbate injuries.
What recommendation did the International Federation of Horse Racing Authorities make regarding corticosteroid withdrawal?
A 14-day withdrawal period.
What was the role of corticosteroids in the study linking them to musculoskeletal injuries?
A positive association was identified but not a specific causal role.
What combination of substances was found to be most toxic to bovine articular chondrocytes?
Methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) combined with lidocaine.
How did the administration of mepivacaine affect the efficacy of TA?
It did not alter the potency or duration of action of TA.
What is a controversial aspect regarding the rest period following IA corticosteroid treatment?
Whether a rest period is necessary for better drug penetration and effectiveness.
What concerns are there regarding corticosteroids’ effects on chondrocyte metabolism?
They may transiently decrease anabolic metabolism, but the concern is considered overstated.
What has been noted about the effects of MPA on joint tissues?
Changes induced by MPA can last for more than 21 days.
What does clinical impression suggest about confinement after corticosteroid injection?
Confinement for 7 to 10 days can prolong the duration of action.
What association has been suggested between corticosteroids and laminitis?
A corticosteroid-induced laminitis association has not been directly proven.
What are the suggested maximum total body doses of TA to avoid laminitis?
18 mg for TA, 200 mg for MPA, and 30 mg for compounded betamethasone.
What did studies reveal about the incidence of laminitis following TA injections?
Very low incidence rates of 0.5% and 0.15% were reported.
Why is it difficult to establish a consistent model of laminitis following corticosteroid injection?
Due to variability in clinical reports and anecdotal suggestions.
What total body dose of TA does the author typically use in healthy athletic horses?
20 to 40 mg.
What should be considered regarding the frequency of corticosteroid treatment?
Higher total body doses should not be repeated frequently, especially in unfit horses.
What potential effects did the study on IA corticosteroids show regarding inflammatory cytokines?
A therapy attenuated the effects of IL-1 and TNF-α on cartilage.