PET/CT and MR imaging in myeloma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Hematology

Background:

• Multiple myeloma is the most common primary bone malignancy, representing 10% of hematological malignancies.
• It accounts for 1% of all cancers, with significant annual incidence and mortality in the US.
• Plasma cell dyscrasias range from asymptomatic MGUS to malignant multiple myeloma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of imaging in myeloma management.
• To focus on PET/CT and MR imaging for initial diagnosis and follow-up.
• To integrate literature reports with clinical practice at a major cancer center.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of PET/CT and MR imaging in multiple myeloma.
• Discussion of imaging's role in assessing disease extent, complications, and status.
• Integration of findings with clinical experience from the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Main Results:

• Imaging assesses intramedullary bone disease, extramedullary foci, and disease severity at presentation.
• Imaging aids in identifying and characterizing myeloma-related complications.
• PET/CT and MR imaging are crucial for initial staging and ongoing disease monitoring.

Conclusions:

• PET/CT and MR imaging are essential tools in the comprehensive management of multiple myeloma.
• These imaging modalities provide critical information for diagnosis, staging, and treatment response assessment.
• The review synthesizes current evidence and practical application of advanced imaging in myeloma care.