Multiple myeloma of the spine

Abstract

Radiology provides a crucial clinical adjunct in patients with plasma cell disorders, in particular multiple myeloma, and its uses are evolving and expanding. This pictorial review illustrates the role of imaging throughout the patient’s clinical course, with specific reference to recently updated international diagnostic criteria. At presentation, imaging optimises characterisation and staging of the plasma-cell disorder, while later in the course of the disease, its roles include the monitoring of disease progression, assessment of post-treatment response and the investigation of clinical deterioration.