The value of 99mTc-MDP bone scintigraphy in staging primary lymphoma of bone

Aim To assess the value of Tc-99m-MDP bone scintigraphy in the staging of primary bone lymphoma. Materials and methods Thirteen staging scintigrams of patients with biopsy proven primary bone lymphoma were reviewed. The number and location of involved sites of disease were documented in each case. Results Seven out of 13 scintigrams (54%) demonstrated a single site of bone involvement. Six cases (46%) showed multifocal disease, including clinically silent weight-bearing sites. Conclusions Bone scintigraphy is a valuable tool in the staging of primary bone lymphoma. It detects multifocal involvement which alters prognosis and possibly treatment. Clinically silent involvement of weight-bearing sites may be detected allowing prophylactic treatment if required.