Whole-Body Bone Positron Emission Tomography for Multiple Myeloma Staging and Skeletal Lesion Characterization
This radiation-based whole-body imaging exam uses a small dose of targeted radioactive tracer that accumulates in areas of high skeletal and bone marrow metabolic activity to visualize both cortical bone and bone marrow tissue across the entire axial and appendicular skeleton. It is specifically designed for oncology care of patients with suspected or confirmed multiple myeloma, as it can distinguish active, myeloma-driven lytic bone lesions from inactive healed bone damage or unrelated benign skeletal abnormalities, providing more precise disease staging than standard bone scintigraphy. The scan takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, requires no contrast agent, and carries a low risk of claustrophobia for patients.
This 10-minute low-claustrophobia whole-body bone PET scan uses minimal radiation to detect active multiple myeloma lesions throughout the entire skeleton and bone marrow for accurate oncology staging and treatment response assessment.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- pet
- Body part
- whole-body
- Ionizing radiation
- true
- Radiation dose
- 14
- Duration (min)
- 10
- Preparation
- fasting-6h
- Pregnancy safe
- false
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- low
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- routine
- Setting
- outpatient
- Cost tier
- very_high
Understanding PET Scan of skeleton
Positron Emission Tomography provides detailed visualization of skeleton. The procedure uses controlled radiation to create precise images with excellent anatomical detail.
Clinical Indications
This diagnostic examination detects abnormalities, guides treatment decisions, and monitors known conditions.
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 10 minutes. The examination is painless and non-invasive.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by board-certified radiologist.
- Report transmitted to referring physician.
What Is This Procedure?
This pet scan evaluates whole-body, specifically skeleton. Uses controlled radiation.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of skeleton and bone marrow. Part of the oncology system.
Why Is It Done?
Detect abnormalities, Guide treatment, Monitor conditions.
What to Expect
Procedure takes 10 minutes.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy