Imaging tests
Imaging plays a vital role in the diagnosis and ongoing management of myeloma, supporting the detection of disease-related complications and monitoring for treatment side effects. Many imaging tests require patients to remain still in confined spaces for extended periods, which can provoke anxiety or discomfort. Through anticipatory guidance, emotional support, and individualised care strategies, nurses contribute significantly to helping patients navigate these experiences with greater ease and confidence.
The most used imaging techniques in myeloma are:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): The current gold standard imaging technique at diagnosis is whole-body MRI. This imaging technique is very sensitive at investigating how myeloma is affecting the bones and can be used to detect spinal cord compression.
- PET-CT scans: If WB-MRI is not available or patients are particularly claustrophobic, some patients may receive a Positron emission tomography (PET) scan which uses a tracer dye (usually fluorodeoxyglucose, FDG) to detect myeloma cells around the body in combination with CT or MRI imaging (PET-CT/PET-MRI).
- WB-CT scans: Computerised tomography (CT) scans are more sensitive than X-rays, showing areas at risk of damage as well as current fractures. They are also quicker to perform and can detect lytic lesions in vertebrae of the spine that can be hard to access. Generally contrast dyes are not used when these tests are performed in myeloma patients. Whole body low-dose CT scans are preferable as they use less radiation and can look at the whole body.