Which imaging test is better for newly diagnosed smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) - CT or MRI?
Both CT and MRI scans can be valuable for newly diagnosed SMM, and each has specific strengths. The choice often depends on what your doctor needs to see and your individual situation.
MRI has been part of the diagnostic Show Full Answer
Which imaging test is better for newly diagnosed smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) - CT or MRI?
Both CT and MRI scans can be valuable for newly diagnosed SMM, and each has specific strengths. The choice often depends on what your doctor needs to see and your individual situation.
MRI has been part of the diagnostic criteria for myeloma since 2014 and is particularly sensitive for detecting early-stage disease. It excels at:
- Detecting bone marrow involvement
- Finding bone lesions in their early stages
- Identifying soft tissue changes
- Determining how advanced the disease is
CT scans are also useful and can:
- Determine the stage of myeloma at diagnosis
- Provide detailed three-dimensional images
- Be more readily available and less expensive than MRI
For SMM specifically, MRI may be preferred because it can detect subtle bone marrow changes before they show up on CT scans. The presence of more than one lesion found with MRI may help determine disease progression.
That said, the right imaging for you depends on multiple factors including your specific medical concerns, what your doctor needs to evaluate, and practical considerations like availability and cost. Your hematologist likely has good reasons for choosing CT initially, but it's worth having a conversation about whether MRI might provide additional information for your particular case.
December 30, 2025
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