Prognostic significance of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with asymptomatic multiple myeloma.

Abnormal marrow patterns were present in half of patients with asymptomatic myeloma. An abnormal MR study of the spine identified asymptomatic patients who were likely to require treatment earlier than those with a normal MR study. A normal MR pattern provided additional justification to defer institution of chemotherapy. However, MR imaging remains an investigational tool to stage patients with multiple myeloma until more data are accumulated.