-2 :: Case - 13097 :: - Multiple Myeloma
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Tx and Followup:
This woman was known to have multiple myeloma and a history of lytic lesions. This evaluation for interval change led to treatment with focused radiotherapy.

Additional Discussion:
Multiple myeloma is characterized by the neoplastic proliferation of a single line of plasma cells producing a monoclonal immunoglobulin. This proliferation replaces normal bone marrow and often results in extensive skeletal destruction with osteolytic lesions, osteopenia, and/or pathologic fractures.

The etiology of multiple myeloma is unknown. It is more common in the elderly and there is a slight increased risk among children and siblings of multiple myeloma patients. There is also an increased incidence amongst petroleum, leather, and cosmetology workers. Additionally, exposure to radiation (greater than 50 rad), hebricides, insecticides, heavy metals, plastics, and asbestos also increases risk.

“Punched-out” lytic lesions are a common finding on plain film. An osteolytic skull lesion is the best diagnostic clue on imaging. The appearance can vary on T1-weighted MRI, ranging from focal hyperintensity in 53% of cases to a focal hypointensity in 25% of cases. Marked lesional enhancement is seen following gadolinium administration. On T2 weighted imaging, an iso- to hyperintense lesion can be seen. Intracranial myeloma, as in this patient, is a rare finding.


References:

Angtuaco EJ, et al. Multiple myeloma: clinical review and diagnostic imaging. Radiology. 2004; 231(1):11-23.

Brant WE, Helms CA. Fundamentals of Diagnostic Radiology. Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins. Philadelphia. 2007

Osborn AG. Diagnostic Neuroradiology. Mosby. St Louis. 1994.

Smith, A, Wisloff, F, Samson, D. Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of multiple myeloma 2005. British Journal of Haematology. 2006; 132:410.

Discussion Author: Jason W. Schroeder

Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell neoplasm that is characterized by involvement of the skeletal system in multiple sites. It accounts for 1% of all malignancies and is most prevalent in the 70-80 year old range. Symptoms include bone pain, anemia, fever, weight loss, and weakness, as well as neurologic symptoms.
Laboratory findings include elevated ESR, anemia, hypercalcemia and hyperuricemia. Elevated globin levels are present, usually involving IgG, but any of the immunoglobulins may be produced. The plasma cell burden will eventually displace and erode the bony trabeculae and give rise to the musculoskeletal symptoms.

Classically, multiple myeloma will appear as osteolytic lesions. These arise predominantly in the verterbral bodies, ribs, skull, pelvis and femur. However, diffuse skeletal osteopenia may be observed without focal lytic lesions. Pathologic fractures are common.

Both plain films and MDP scintigraphy have a significant false negative problem: Plain film false negative 9-25%; and, MDP false negative 40-60%. - LINK -

However, FDG PET may be useful, with a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 92% reported. PMID: 15788594

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