Radiology · single question
What is the radiographic characteristic of Multiple Myeloma in the jaws?
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Correct answer: B. Punched-out radiolucencies
Multiple myeloma in the jaws shows multiple well-defined 'punched-out' radiolucencies — discrete, rounded, lucent lesions with no surrounding sclerotic halo. These represent focal bone destruction by plasma cell infiltrates. The same pattern appears throughout the skeleton (skull, vertebrae, pelvis). Cotton wool = Paget's disease; Soap bubble = ameloblastoma or CGCG; Salt and pepper = Paget's (mixed phase).
- A. CORRECT. 'Punched-out' radiolucencies are the classic radiographic description of multiple myeloma lesions in bone — well-defined, rounded, no sclerotic border.
- B. Incorrect. 'Cotton wool' appearance is the characteristic radiographic finding of Paget's disease of bone (mixed lytic/blastic phase).
- C. Incorrect. 'Soap bubble' pattern describes multilocular radiolucencies seen in ameloblastoma, central giant cell granuloma, and odontogenic keratocyst.
- D. Incorrect. 'Salt and pepper' pattern is also associated with Paget's disease (early phase) or hyperparathyroidism (ground glass).