Skeletal survey

Skeletal survey
Diagnostics
ICD-9-CM 88.31

A skeletal survey is a series of X-rays of all the bones in the body, or at least the axial skeleton and the large cortical bones. A very common use is the diagnosis of multiple myeloma, where tumour deposits appear as "punched-out" lesions. The standard set of X-rays for a skeletal survey includes X-rays of the skull, entire spine, pelvis, ribs, both humeri and femora (proximal long bones). It has been found to be much more sensitive than MRI and isotope scan s to detect bone involvement in multiple myeloma.[1]

Skeletal surveys are also used with suspected non accidental injury in children (under 2 years of age).

The NICE [2] guidelines state that 19 images of the child are taken.These are reported on by a consultant paediatric radiologist and are often copies are made. A skull CT is also done in connection with the radiographs.

A skeletal survey can also be some to see some skeletal dysplasia, usually all long bones are radiographed, but only one side of the extremities.

References

  1. Lecouvet F, Malghem J, Michaux L, Maldague B, Ferrant A, Michaux J, Vande Berg B (1999). "Skeletal survey in advanced multiple myeloma: radiographic versus MR imaging survey.". Br J Haematol 106 (1): 35–9. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2141.1999.01529.x. PMID 10444160.
  2. http://ep.bmj.com/content/early/2015/01/14/archdischild-2014-307533


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