Imaging for Plasma Cell Dyscrasias: What, When, and How?

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Hematology

Background:

• Imaging is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring plasma cell bone disease.
• Disparities in imaging availability and reporting standards necessitate consensus criteria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide oncologists with guidelines on selecting appropriate imaging modalities for plasma cell dyscrasias.
• To clarify diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive imaging applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current imaging modalities and diagnostic criteria for plasma cell dyscrasias.
• Discussion of challenges in differentiating multiple myeloma from other bone lesions and treatment-related changes.

Main Results:

• Consensus imaging criteria have been developed for diagnosis and response assessment.
• Guidance is provided on differentiating multiple myeloma from mimics and interpreting post-therapy complications.

Conclusions:

• Awareness of established imaging criteria and modality selection is imperative for effective patient management.
• This review empowers oncologists to utilize imaging for accurate diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment monitoring in plasma cell dyscrasias.