The use of monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs

Abstract

Osteoarthrosis is a degenerative joint disease that affects a large part of the canine population, causing pain. This is manifested by decreased mobility, abnormal postures and behavioral changes, worsening the quality of life of individuals. This pain is produced especially by proinflammatory mediators and nerve growth factor (NGF) at joint level that sensitize the nerve endings. The objective of this Final Degree Project is the use of a new drug, a monoclonal antibody, called Bedinvetmab, which acts at the level of the NGF relieving the pain with the advantage of having few side effects. For this purpose, 10 patients have been used in a period of 45 days each, to whom a monthly dose of this therapy has been administered, with a follow-up every 15 days. To determine the quality of life associated with pain, a physical examination was carried out as well as an assessment by the owners of the mobility of their pets before and after the doses administered, obtaining an improvement in mobility with a decrease in limping, less difficulty in getting up and/or lying down as well as in jumping and going up and down stairs and a decrease in stiffness to a greater or lesser extent. This translates into a decrease in pain and improvement in the quality of life.