Atypical manifestations of multiple myeloma: radiological appearance

Immunoglobulin D-Lambda Multiple Myeloma Initially Presenting in the Sphenoid Sinus, Orbital Apex, and Skull Base: A Systematic Review with a Case Report

Objectives  Multiple myeloma (MM) with initial manifestations in the sphenoid sinus, orbital apex, and skull base is exceedingly rare. A systematic review was conducted to investigate the epidemiology and advancements . Methods  Relevant cases were identified by searching CNKI, WanFang Data, CQVIP databases, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Additionally, we present a case of IgD-λ (immunoglobulin D-lambda) MM with initial symptoms of dizziness, unilateral pain, blindness, and ophthalmoplegia, leading to a 4-month overall survival. Strictly based on PRISMA standards, we included and summarized existing cases and reflected our case. Results  Our systematic review includes 34 case reports, revealing 67.6% of patients initially presented with diplopia and 44.1% underwent endoscopic procedures, notably with only two cases of IgD-λ subtype. In our case, we performed an endoscopic wide trans-ethmoidal sphenoidotomy and biopsy of the skull base and orbital apex lesion. Postoperative pathology confirmed a highly active plasmacytoma, clinically diagnosed as IgD-λ MM with a TP53 deletion mutation and multiple extramedullary metastases. A range of diagnostic tools was employed, including hemoglobin, immunoglobulin, urinary protein analysis, positron emission tomography-computed tomography (CT), bone marrow cytology, and gene detection. Conclusion  The subtle clinical manifestations of IgD-λ MM in the paranasal sinuses and skull base hinder early diagnosis. There is a paucity of literature describing MM initially presenting in these locations. CT/magnetic resonance scans are necessary to identify characteristic bone destruction. An endoscopic approach is popular for tissue biopsy. Bone marrow biopsy with a smear, serum or urine protein electrophoresis, and immunofixation electrophoresis are crucial upon the appearance of target organ damage.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a novel series of 2-(2,6-dioxopiperidin-3-yl)isoquinoline-1,3(2H,4H)-dione derivatives as cereblon modulators

In the current study, we designed and synthesised a novel series of 2-(2,6-dioxopiperidin-3-yl)isoquinoline-1,3(2H,4H)-dione derivatives as cereblon (CRBN) modulators. The results of the CCK8 assay revealed potent antiproliferative activity for the selected compound 10a against NCI-H929 (IC₅₀=2.25 µM) and U239 (IC₅₀=5.86 µM) cell lines. Compound 10a also can inhibit the TNF-α level (IC₅₀=0.76 µM) in LPS stimulated PMBC and showed nearly no toxicity to this normal human cell line. The TR-FRET assay showed compound 10a having potent inhibitory activity against CRBN (IC₅₀=4.83 µM), and the docking study confirmed a nice fitting of 10a into the active sites of CRBN. Further biology studies revealed compound 10a can increase the apoptotic events, arrest the NCI-H929 cells at G0/G1 cell cycle, and induce the ubiquitination degradation of IKZF1 and IKZF3 proteins by CRL4^CRBN. These preliminary results suggested that compound 10a could serve as a potential antitumor drug and worthy of further investigation.

Central Nervous System Myeloma and Unusual Extramedullary Localizations: Real Life Practical Guidance

Central nervous system localization of multiple myeloma (CNS-MM) accounts for about 1% of all MM during disease course or even rarer at diagnosis. A difference in the origin, i.e., osteodural or primary dural vs leptomeningeal/intraparenchymal, seems to define two distinct types of intracranial myeloma, with different clinical behavior. CNS-MM may occur also as a presentation of MM. Treatment is still unsatisfactory and many treatments have been reported: chemotherapy, intrathecal therapy, and radiotherapy, with dismal prognosis. Other sites of myeloma localization could be also of interest and deserve description. Because of the rarity and aggressiveness of the disease clinicians are often doubtful on how to treat it since there is no general agreement. Moreover, recent drugs such as the anti CD38 monoclonal antibody, immunomodulatory drugs, and proteasome inhibitors have changed the treatment of patients with MM with a significant improvement in overall response and survival. The role of novel agents in CNS MM management and unusual presentations will be discussed as well as the potential role of other new immunomodulatory drugs and proteasome inhibitors that seem to cross the blood-brain barrier. The purpose of this review is to increase awareness of the clinical unusual presentation and neuroradiological findings, give practical diagnostic advice and treatment options algorithm.

Mandibular lesion as the first sign of multiple myeloma in a young patient

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant neoplasm characterized by an abnormal intramedullary plasma cell proliferation. It accounts for approximately 10% of all hematologic malignancies. It generally occurs between fourth and seventh decades of life, and it is predominant in male patients. Patients lower than 40 years are considered young, and only very few cases have been reported. We present a rare case of a 27-year-old man whose initial findings of MM were a swelling at the ramus of the mandible.

New challenges in integrated diagnosis by imaging and osteo-immunology in bone lesions

INTRODUCTION

High-resolution imaging is the gold standard to measure the functional and biological features of bone lesions. Imaging markers have allowed the characterization both of tumour heterogeneity and metabolic data. Besides, ongoing studies are evaluating a combined use of 'imaging markers', such as SUVs, MATV, TLG, ADC from PET and MRI techniques respectively, and several 'biomarkers' spanning from chemokine immune-modulators, such as PD-1, RANK/RANKL, CXCR4/CXCL12 to transcription factors, such as TP53, RB1, MDM2, RUNX family, EZH2, YY1, MAD2. Osteoimmunology may improve diagnosis and prognosis leading to precision medicine in bone lesion treatment. Areas covered: We investigated modalities (molecular and imaging approach) useful to identify bone lesions deriving both from primary bone tumours and from osteotropic tumours, which have a higher incidence, prevalence and prognosis. Here, we summarized the recent advances in imaging techniques and osteoimmunology biomarkers which could play a pivotal role in personalized treatment. Expert commentary: Although imaging and molecular integration could allow both early diagnosis and stratification of cancer prognosis, large scale clinical trials will be necessary to translate pilot studies in the current clinical setting.

ABBREVIATIONS

ADC: apparent diffusion coefficient; ALCAM: Activated Leukocyte Cell Adhesion Molecule; ALP: Alkaline phosphatases; BC: Breast cancer; BSAP: B-Cell Lineage Specific Activator; BSAP: bone-specific alkaline phosphatase; BSP: bone sialoprotein; CRIP1: cysteine-rich intestinal protein 1; CD44: cluster of differentiation 44; CT: computed tomography; CXCL12: C-X-C motif ligand 12; CXCR4: C-X-C C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4; CTLA-4: Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4; CTX-1: C-terminal end of the telopeptide of type I collagen; DC: dendritic cell; DWI: Diffusion-weighted MR image; EMT: mesenchymal transition; ET-1: endothelin-1; FDA: Food and Drug Administration; FDG: ¹⁸F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose; FGF: fibroblast growth factor; FOXC2: forkhead box protein C2: HK-2: hexokinase-2; ICTP: carboxyterminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen; IGF-1R: Insulin Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor; ILC: innate lymphocytes cells; LC: lung cancer; IL-1: interleukin-1; LYVE1: lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronic acid receptor 1; MAD2: mitotic arrest deficient 2; MATV: metabolically active tumour volume; M-CSF: macrophage colony stimulating factor; MM: multiple myeloma; MIP1a: macrophage inflammatory protein 1a; MSC: mesenchymal stem cell; MRI: magnetic resonance imaging; PC: prostate cancer; NRP2: neuropilin 2; OPG: osteoprotogerin; PDGF: platelet-derived growth factor; PD-1: Programmed Cell Death 1; PET: positron emission tomography; PINP: procollagen type I N propeptide; PROX1: prospero homeobox protein 1; PSA: Prostate-specific antigen; PTH: parathyroid hormone; RANK: Receptor activator of NF-kB ligand; RECK: Reversion-inducing-cysteine-rich protein; SEMAs: semaphorins; SPECT: single photon computed tomography; SUV: standard uptake value; TLG: total lesion glycolysis; TP53: tumour protein 53; VCAM-1: vascular endothelial molecule-1; VOI: volume of interest; YY1: Yin Yang 1.

MRI of common and uncommon pathologies involving the periportal space: a pictorial essay

Imaging detection and differential diagnoses of pathology involving the periportal space can be challenging. MRI is a useful technique for assessment of the periportal space since it readily distinguishes normal and abnormal vascular and biliary anatomy, and the excellent soft tissue discrimination allows for detection of subtle lesions. This pictorial essay describes the anatomy of the periportal space and illustrates the MRI appearance of a variety of pathologies that can affect this region.

Relapse of multiple myeloma presenting as extramedullary plasmacytomas in multiple organs

Multiple myeloma is a neoplastic plasma cell disorder. It is characterized by collections of abnormal plasma cells accumulating in the bone marrow, where they interfere with the production of normal blood cells. It usually presents as a multisystemic involvement, whose symptoms and signs vary greatly. Some patients have slowly progressive disease while others have aggressive clinical behavior by extramedullary involvement. In addition to renal failure, anemia, hypercalcemia, lytic bone lesions, and immunodeficiency, it also affects multiple organ system, such as pancreas, adrenal glands, kidney, skin, lung, liver, spleen, lymph nodes, and bone. To raise awareness of the variable presentations of this disease, we report a 53-year-old male patient, with multiple myeloma in his first remission who relapsed with extramedullary plasmacytomas (EMPs) involving multiple organs, such as pancreas, adrenal glands, kidney, skin, lung, liver, spleen, and lymph nodes.

Diagnostic value of whole-body low-dose computed tomography (WBLDCT) in bone lesions detection in patients with multiple myeloma (MM)

PURPOSE

To assess the role of whole-body low-dose computed tomography (WBLDCT) in the diagnosis and staging of patients with suspicion of multiple myeloma (MM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 138 patients (76 male and 62 female; mean age 63.5 years, range 50-81 years), with early MM, underwent WBLDCT protocol study, performed on 16-slice scanner (Brilliance, Philips Medical System, Eindhoven, The Netherlands): tube voltage 120 kV; tube current time product 40 mAs. Diagnosis of osteolytic lesions was performed on the basis of axial and multiplanar reformatted images, whereas the assessment of spinal misalignment and fracture was done by using multiplanar reformatted images. The overall dose delivered to each patient was 4.2 mSv. Every patient gave personal informed consent, as required by our institution guidelines.

RESULTS

The diagnosis was established either by histopathology or imaging follow-up (size increase of over a period time). In all 138 patients, image resolution was diagnostic, enabling correct classification of multiple myeloma patients. WBLDCT showed a total of 328 pathologic bone findings in 81/138 patients. CT scanning resulted in complete evaluation of the bone lesions in these areas of the skeleton: skull (42), humerus (15), femur (20), ribs (7), scapulae (13), pelvis (35), clavicle (13), sternum (10), cervical (39), dorsal (65), lombar (48) and sacral rachis (21). In 40/81 bone involvement detected by CT was the only CRAB criterion present. Furthermore, WBLDCT demonstrated pleuro-pulmonary lesions in 20 patients (11 infective, 9 as MM localizations) and 1 renal neoplasia.

CONCLUSION

WBLDCT, detecting bone marrow localizations and demonstrating extra-osseous findings, with a fast scanning time and high resolution images, is a reliable imaging-based tool for a proper management of MM patients.

Spontaneous rupture of liver plasmacytoma mimicking hepatocellular carcinoma

Extramedullary plasmacytoma of the liver is rare. Here, we report a case presenting with rupture of extramedullary plasmacytoma of the liver. She had a past history of multiple myeloma with IgA lambda type. Her serum was positive for hepatitis C virus infection and exhibited elevated levels of serum protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist-II. She was initially diagnosed as rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and then treated with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) since bloody ascites and formation of hematoma were seen around hyper-vascular liver tumors on computed tomography. However, the clinical course of this case after TACE was atypical for HCC rupture, as shown by the development of a huge intra-abdominal abscess extending from the liver tumor. Immuno-histochemical analysis of the tumor biopsy specimen revealed massive infiltration of plasma cells expressing IgA and lambda chain. To our knowledge, this is the first case of rupture of extramedullary liver plasmacytoma.

Hyperattenuating bone marrow abnormalities in myeloma patients using whole-body non-enhanced low-dose MDCT: correlation with haematological parameters

We aimed to establish the role of hyperattenuating medullary abnormalities detected by whole-body non-enhanced low-dose multidetector CT (WBLD-MDCT) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients referred for primary evaluation. 50 consecutive patients with untreated Stage I (n(I) = 11), Stage II (n(II) = 10) and Stage III (n(III) = 29) MM underwent WBLD-MDCT for staging. The number and size of osteolysis, as well as haematologic parameters including paraprotein and beta2-microglobulin levels, were assessed and related to the number, size and density of medullary abnormalities assumed to represent myeloma involvement. Bone marrow abnormalities were found in 2/11 (18%) Stage I, 6/10 (60%) Stage II and 20/29 (69%) Stage III myeloma patients, and did not parallel the incidence of osteolysis. Patients with medullary lesions had higher levels of immunoglobulin A (median, 4730 mg dl(-1) vs 1520 mg dl(-1)), light-chain proteinuria (median, 690 mg dl(-1) vs 214 mg dl(-1)) and IgG paraprotein (median, 3270 mg dl(-1) vs 2610 mg dl(-1)) compared with patients without medullary lesions. In patients with medullary abnormalities, levels of serum beta2-microglobulin were significantly higher than in patients without detectable marrow infiltrates (median, 4.3 mg dl(-1) vs 2.4 mg dl(-1); p = 0.0015). In conclusion, medullary abnormalities visualized by WBLD-MDCT are encountered in all stages of myeloma, including cases without osteolysis. They are associated with significantly elevated serum levels of paraprotein (reflecting tumour mass) and beta2-microglobulin, a prospective prognostic marker for myeloma. The nature and possible prognostic significance of medullary abnormalities detected by WBLD-MDCT therefore warrants further investigation.

Anaplastic Myeloma with Deposits in Three Different Sites: Case report and literature review

Anaplastic myeloma is a rare aggressive disease that is resistant to most chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy. It develops usually after a diagnosis of classical multiple myeloma and is associated with at least one extramedullary plasmacytoma site. We report a case of this rare disease in a patient who had no previous illness and presented to us with more than one extramedullary plasmacytoma site: a mass in the right anterior chest wall, a swollen scrotum and multiple nodular skin lesions mainly in the legs.