What type of bone lesions are characterized by a "moth eaten" appearance?

Bone lesions characterized by a "moth eaten" appearance are typically associated with multiple myeloma. This type of cancer originates in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow, and is known for causing lytic bone lesions. The "moth eaten" appearance results from the extensive destruction of bone tissue, leading to irregularly shaped holes or areas of loss in the bone structure.

Multiple myeloma's impact on the bones is due to the neoplastic proliferation of plasma cells that secrete factors which stimulate osteoclast activity, resulting in bone resorption and the formation of these characteristic lytic lesions. As a result, imaging studies, such as X-rays, can reveal this distinct pattern among other findings in patients with multiple myeloma, reinforcing the diagnosis.

Other conditions, such as osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and fibrous dysplasia, typically present with different radiological features. For example, osteosarcoma often appears as a more aggressive, destructive lesion typically associated with a new bone formation, while chondrosarcoma demonstrates a cartilaginous matrix and may not create the same kind of moth-eaten appearance. Fibrous dysplasia can lead to bone deformities