The aim of this study was to identify dogs with polyarthritis (PA) and information about age, sex, race, body weight, chief complaint, changes in physical examination, cytology of synovial fluid and response to therapy. Mixed breeds dogs over six years of age were the most affected and the main symptoms observed were limited mobility (71.5%) followed by joint pain (52.3%) and claudication (33.3%). Inapetence and fever were observed in five (18.5%) and four dogs (14.8%), respectively. Haematological abnormalities as non regenerative anemia (29.6%), leukocytosis (26%) and thrombocytopenia (18.5%) were found. The results of serum biochemistry were normal in seven of 27 dogs (26%) and the major changes were hyperproteinemia (55.5%) and hypoalbuminemia (37%). The synovial inflammation was considered severe in 17 dogs (77.5%) and neutrophils prevalent in 52.4% of cases (n = 14). The treatment was performed in 18 dogs with immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids, and was effective in 89% of cases
joints; synovial fluid; dogs
