Multiple myeloma

Abstract

Several differential points help to distinguish (a) lytic deposits of multiple myeloma from bone metastases and (b) benign from malignant vertebral compression fractures. Multidetector CT is a realistic alternative for spinal imaging in severely disabled patients or those unable to have an MRI scan. Several different patterns of marrow infiltration appear on MRI which are not specific and do not correlate with microscopic patterns of infiltration. The role of radiology in the assessment of treatment response is limited; sequential analysis of biological markers is preferred.