Spectrum of Magnetic Resonance Imaging findings in transplanted Multiple Myeloma patients with hip/pelvic pain (according to MY-RADS): a single center experience

Purpose: The aim of our study is to evaluate the spectrum of MRI findings in transplanted Multiple Myeloma (MM) patients with hip/pelvic pain and to correlate these findings with standard prognostic clinical outcomes. Methods: A retrospective interpretation of the MRI findings of 54 MM patients with hip/pelvic pain were done according to MY-RADS guidelines. MRI findings included: type of bone marrow involvement and incidental findings (osteonecrosis and fractures). Inter- and intra-reader agreement were calculated using Cohen’s kappa test. Survival and relapse rates, type of transplantation and days of hospitalization were correlated with MRI findings. Results: 1/52 patient presented normal bone marrow pattern, 10/52 focal pattern, 26/52 diffuse pattern and 15/ 52 mixed. No cases of micronodular was reported. Among the incidental findings, n = 6 osteonecrosis and n = 5 pathological fractures were found, with average length of stay higher. The intra- and inter-reader agreement assessing MY-RADS, were good (k value between 0.61−0.8). Focal pattern was most represented in patients with osteonecrosis and the worst survival rate. Diffuse pattern was most represented in relapses. No statistically significant correlations were found between bone marrow infiltration patterns and the type of transplantation. Conclusion: MRI can recognize different infiltration patterns and complications in transplanted MM patients with hip/pelvic pain, correlating with clinical parameters.