Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell normally responsible for producing antibodies. In this condition, abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and interfere with the production of normal blood cells. Production of Paraprotein (an abnormal antibody causing kidney problems) is also seen in most cases along with bone lesions and hypercalcemia.
Multiple myeloma is attributed to bone infiltration and destruction of the bone and infiltration of organ(s) by cancerous cells. Symptoms depend on the location and extent of the disease. Common symptoms include
Weakness, lethargy
Lameness
Bone pain and weakness with destruction of areas of bone
Fever
Partial paralysis
Dementia with generalized discomfort or uneasiness Labored breathing
Pale gums and mucous membranes
Increased thirst and increased urination with increased levels of calcium in the blood or kidney dysfunction
Urinary incontinence
Enlarged liver and spleen
Excessive bleeding
Bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract
Bleeding from the nose or mucous membranes
Retinal Hemorrhage and blindness
Detached retina
Glaucoma
Conjunctivitis
Coma
