Clinical imaging of osteodense metastasis.

Introduction. - Due to the occurrence of osteoblastic metastases in the cou rse of various cancers, particularly in the course of prostate cancer, we a re faced with diagnosis and follow-up issues different from those associate d with lytic metastasis. We therefore analyzed the respective advantages of imaging techniques. Current knowledge and key points. - Most of the time, osteoblastic metastas es are evidenced by standard radiography. Due to its ability to demonstrate metastases localization, extent and signs, CT scan is not only of value wh en osteoblastic metastases are suspected but also for patient's follow-up. MRI provides further information in regard to both the lesion content and o steoblastic degree. Though MRI must be performed after all other imaging pr ocedures, it is of value for multiplanar study of the whole spine. Future prospects and projects. - Studies focusing on either the lesion cont ent and volume or helical CT are in progress and aim at better monitoring f ollow-up, while the objective of dynamic MRI studies is to better analyze l esion content. (C) 1999 Elsevier, Paris.