Clinical aspects of canine multiple melanoma
Multiple myeloma is a neoplasm of well-differentiated B cell lymphocytes (plasma cells) typically originating from the bone marrow. The malignancy is most often associated with the transformation of a single B cell line, which may secrete a homogenous immunoglobulin product (known as paraprotein or M-component). The most common M-components secreted are IgG or IgA. Several clinical presentations may occur in conjunction with multiple myeloma in the dog. These include hyperviscosity syndrome, immunodeficiency, bone disease, hypercalcemia, bleeding diathesis, renal disease, cardiac failure, and variable cytopenias. This report describes a seven year old, female spayed, mixed breed dog with a two month history of intermittent epistaxis, inappetence, and lethargy. A CBC, chemistry panel, and serum and urine electrophoresis were consistent with multiple myeloma. The dog had several clinical signs associated with multiple myeloma, which will be discussed.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 11-12).