Ultrasound Evaluation of Pediatric Abdominal Masses

Ultrasound is a noninvasive imaging modality that aids in diagnosis without the potentially damaging effects of ionizing radiation, a particularly important consideration in the evaluation of pediatric patients. Ultrasound is widely available, easy to use, and reliable; it is therefore the imaging method of choice in evaluating most known or suspected abdominal masses in neonates or older children. This article focuses on the clinical and sonographic features of selected common abdominal masses in infants and children. The authors highlight the important clinical characteristics of these abdominal masses and specific sonographic imaging features that allow clinicians to differentiate among the common abdominal masses in pediatric patients.