[Diffuse demineralization of the lumbar spine. Magnetic resonance tomography studies of osteoporosis and plasmacytoma].

On plain radiographs, diffuse infiltration of the spine in multiple myeloma may present as diffuse demineralization. Differentiation from osteoporotic changes is then difficult. 15 patients with multiple myeloma and 15 patients with osteoporosis were prospectively examined by MRI using plain and contrast enhanced gradient echo techniques. Examinations were evaluated for lesions and diagnosis was made by two independent observers. Contrast enhancement was visible in lesions detected in myeloma patients and in compression fractures. Fractures could be differentiated from malignant lesions by the fact that there was no multiplicity of enhancing lesions. Contrast enhanced opposed phase gradient echo sequences seem suited for the detection of vertebral involvement in myeloma.