IRAP Treatment

IRAP is a joint treatment that has been used primarily in horses. IRAP, or Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein, is injected into a problem joint to block the Interleukin-1 receptor against proteins that cause its deterioration. This is a superior treatment to other joint injections because it not only reduces inflammation, but also prevents further break down of the joints. It can also prevent the need for harsher steroid treatments.

Blood is taken from the patient to harvest the IRAP protein, so there are no issues with rejection of foreign proteins. Approximately 20 mL of blood is drawn from the animal, and then it is centrifuged to separate the serum from the blood cells. IRAP is actually found in the serum part of the blood. The original volume is cut in 4 during the filtering process. The goal is to make as many treatments as possible using the same sample so the patient doesn't have to be subjected to future blood draws. If 20 mL of blood was taken from the animal, we should be able to make three treatments.

Once the IRAP treatment is prepared, it is injected into the problem joint. Smaller joints are injected with about 1 mL, while larger ones receive closer to 2mL. The injection is repeated 2-4 weeks later, and can be continued at this interval if improvements are shown.

If you are interested in trying the IRAP treatment with your pet, please call and schedule a consultation appointment.

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