Multiple punched out lesions on skull X-ray is found in –
## **Core Concept**
The question pertains to the radiological appearance of the skull in various conditions, specifically focusing on the presence of multiple punched-out lesions. This type of radiographic finding is characteristic of certain diseases that affect bone resorption or formation.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **C. Multiple Myeloma**, is associated with multiple punched-out lesions on a skull X-ray due to the proliferation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. These lesions occur because the malignant cells secrete factors that activate osteoclasts, leading to bone resorption without subsequent bone formation, resulting in the characteristic "punched-out" appearance. This condition is a prime example of a disease that causes purely lytic bone lesions.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** Typically associated with a "salt and pepper" appearance on skull X-rays due to the presence of both lytic and sclerotic lesions, not punched-out lesions.
- **Option B:** Usually presents with a "ground glass" appearance on X-ray due to the diffuse demineralization and cortical thinning, not punched-out lesions.
- **Option D:** Often shows a "sunburst" or "onion skin" appearance due to periosteal reaction, not punched-out lesions.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is that multiple myeloma can present with the CRAB criteria: **C**alcium elevation, **R**enal failure, **A**normia (anemia), and **B**one lesions (lytic lesions). The presence of multiple punched-out lesions on a skull X-ray is highly suggestive of multiple myeloma and warrants further investigation, including serum protein electrophoresis and bone marrow biopsy.
## **Correct Answer:** C. Multiple Myeloma