Infection--an underappreciated cause of bone pain in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma of the spine

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.

Unsuspected multiple myeloma presenting as Escherichia coli infectious spondylitis: a case report

Multiple myeloma associated with infectious spondylitis at initial presentation is rare. We report a previously healthy woman with back pain for 3 weeks, initially diagnosed as Escherichia coli infectious spondylitis. Because magnetic resonance imaging revealed skip lesions other than infectious spondylitis, extensive work-up disclosed monoclonal immunoglobulin G kappa and 30% plasma cells in bone marrow. The patient was treated with antibiotics for 8 weeks without recurrence in the subsequent 6 months. Although the panorama of infectious spondylitis was obvious and substantial, our case demonstrates that further investigations for underlying diseases are critical, especially when image findings are incompatible with common presentations of infectious spondylitis.

Multiple myeloma

Advances in the imaging and treatment of multiple myeloma have occurred over the past decade. This article summarises the current status and highlights how an understanding of both is necessary for optimum management.