Multiple myeloma: characterization of patients through the analysis of semiquantitative parameters with 18F-FDG PET

Abstract Background Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy after non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Recently, use of 18F-FDG PET/CT has become more and diffused thanks to its ability combine functional morphological information for diagnosis, prognosis assessment, evaluation treatment response. This study aims describe semiquantitative parameters obtained from in a population patients with MM. A comparative analysis was performed existing literature. Methods retrospective included 50 suspected MM who had undergone whole-body PET/CT. The positive scans were analyzed, specifically number focal lesions (FLs), SUVmax “hottest” lesion, ratio between bone marrow spleen (marrow-to-spleen SUVmean ratio), marrow-to-spleen SULpeak ratio, MTV. Results Of total cohort submitted MM, 39 subjects resulted affected by 11 negative remaining not included. 59% males, mean age (SD) 65 ± 7.8 years. Based on FLs, entire divided into three groups: 14 group than 10 lesions; 5 B 10; 24 C presented less lesions. Conclusions Semiquantitative through PET can be useful assessment staging criteria as metabolic activity higher extensive disease at time diagnosis. predictive prognostic relevance these well their role guiding therapeutic process toward ASCT worths further research.