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CT features of abdominal plasma cell neoplasms
J Monill1, J Pernas, E Montserrat
1Hospital de Sant Pau, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Avda. Sant Antoni M. Claret 167, 08025, Barcelona, Spain. jmonills@menta.net
European Radiology
|July 22, 2005
Summary
Abdominal plasma cell neoplasms, including multiple myeloma and extramedullary plasmacytoma, often present as well-defined enhancing masses on CT scans. These findings are crucial for diagnosing these rare abdominal conditions.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Plasma cell neoplasms are rare tumors that can involve various organs.
- Abdominal involvement by plasma cell neoplasms requires accurate imaging characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate the computed tomography (CT) imaging characteristics of abdominal plasma cell neoplasms.
- To aid in the differential diagnosis of abdominal masses by understanding CT features of plasma cell neoplasms.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of helical CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis in 11 patients.
- Intravenous contrast material was administered for enhanced imaging.
- Consensus review of imaging findings by two radiologists; diagnoses confirmed by biopsy, surgery, or follow-up.
Main Results:
- Eleven patients (7 men, 4 women; mean age 62) with abdominal plasma cell neoplasms were analyzed.
- Multiple myeloma (7 patients) showed multifocal disease (perirenal space, lymph nodes, peritoneum, liver, subcutaneous tissues, kidney).
- Extramedullary plasmacytoma (4 patients) typically presented as single (stomach, vagina, retroperitoneum) or double (rectum, jejunum) enhancing masses.
- Well-defined enhancing masses were the most frequent CT finding (10/11 patients).
Conclusions:
- Plasma cell neoplasms should be considered in the differential diagnosis of enhancing abdominal or pelvic masses.
- CT imaging reveals characteristic features that can help identify these rare neoplasms.