Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Spinal Bone Marrow Signal Alterations with Emphasis on Pattern Recognition: A Case Series

Abstract

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most sensitive imaging modality available to detect bone marrow oedema. Different pathological conditions of the spine exhibit distinct and specific bone marrow oedema patterns or signal characteristics. Understanding these patterns for various types of bone marrow oedema in the spine, such as degenerative and pathological conditions, helps to prevent unnecessary investigations and further work-up. In this article, authors detail the specific imaging characteristics of benign versus malignant or pathological fractures, tuberculosis and non tubercular infections of the spine, as well as the imaging appearance of multiple myeloma, among others. Therefore, this article mainly emphasises the approach to bone marrow oedema detected in the spine, aiding in reaching the correct diagnosis and guiding proper management.