Multiple myeloma in dogs is a type of cancer that’s generally present in the dog’s blood cells and bone marrow. Several dogs succumb to this form of cancer because the cancer cells are aggressive in nature and quickly multiply and spread to different parts of the body. Multiple myeloma is a tumor that develops in the dog’s plasma cells.
Dogs suffering from such tumors develop a range of other medical problems and this ultimately leads to death.
Multiple Myeloma in Dogs
If the dog suffers from multiple myleoma, his bones may get affected due to the invasion of cancer cells. As the disease spreads osteolysis sets in. The cancer can also spread to different organ systems in the dog’s body. The symptoms of this condition may be present for up to a year before its diagnosed. As a pet owner you must watch for these symptoms and conduct a vet check as soon as possible in order to increase your dog’s chance of survival.
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
Symptoms of multiple myeloma include:
- Listlessness and fatigue
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Pet’s gums start to bleed
- Multiple fractures or bones that easily break
- Pet may show signs of lameness
- Dog may suffer from seizures
Complications that Arise due to Multiple Myeloma
Complications arising from multiple myeloma include:
- Thickening of the blood
- Heart failure
- Weakened immune system
- Secondary infections
Diagnosis of Multiple Myeloma in Dogs
To diagnose multiple myeloma the vet will first conduct a few blood tests. The blood tests will reveal the dog’s white blood cell count along with any other abnormalities. X-rays of the bones will help determine the presence of fractures. One strong indicator of multiple myeloma is osteolysis.
If osteolysis is present along with the clinical symptoms of multiple myeloma, the vet will confirm the diagnosis. Biopsies are then performed to find out the type and severity of cancer cells present.
Treatment of Multiple Myeloma in Dogs
The most common treatment option that’s used to treat dogs suffering from multiple myeloma is chemotherapy. Although these drugs help your pet to a great extent, this form of cancer is known to reoccur once the treatment is over. The vet will prescribe a few painkillers to your pet to bring relief from the symptom of the illness.
If the dog is suffering from other illnesses along with multiple myeloma, the vet will try to cure those illnesses by administering oral medications.
Prognosis of Multiple Myeloma
Most pets respond well to chemotherapy drugs but only survive for 2 years. If multiple myeloma is accompanied by other illnesses, the dog will succumb to the illness earlier. Your pet will require frequent follow up vet checks as the vet may have to change the dosage of medication depending on the dog’s response to treatment.
Since each dog has unique medical needs, you must discuss all treatment options with the vet to know what’s best suited to your pet.