What’s New in Imaging for Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a haematological malignancy of plasma cells, typically characterised by a monoclonal immunoglobulin protein detectable in the blood. Myeloma requires treatment when it affects specific end-organs, including lytic bone disease. The accurate detection of bone disease is therefore crucial in the diagnosis and management of myeloma, and advanced imaging with whole-body magnetic resonance imaging or positron emission tomography is now recommended as the standard of care. For patients with non-secretory myeloma and those with extramedullary disease, imaging is the only way to monitor response to treatment and to detect relapse. Whilst there are challenges in delivering advanced imaging modalities to patients with myeloma, the clinical and financial advantages mean that improving access should be a priority. This review discusses the importance of advanced imaging in the management of myeloma across its disease course, and outlines current barriers and potential future directions in this rapidly evolving field.