Ultrasound of the pediatric female pelvis

Enno Stranzinger1, Peter J Strouse

  • 1Section of Pediatric Radiology, C S Mott Children's Hospital, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0252, USA.

Insights

Pelvic pain in children often requires ultrasound. This imaging technique is crucial for diagnosing various pelvic conditions in female pediatric patients, aiding in accurate disease recognition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric radiology
  • Gynecologic imaging

Background:

  • Pelvic pain is a frequent reason for ultrasound in pediatric females.
  • Numerous pathological conditions can affect the pediatric female pelvis.
  • Understanding normal pelvic organ ultrasound appearance is key to identifying abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To emphasize the importance of ultrasound in evaluating the pediatric female pelvis.
  • To highlight common indications for pelvic ultrasound in female children.
  • To underscore the necessity of knowing differential diagnoses for pelvic organ diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Ultrasound is the primary imaging modality.
  • Evaluation includes assessment of normal pelvic organ appearance.
  • Differential diagnosis is essential for pathological findings.

Main Results:

  • Ultrasound is effective in diagnosing pediatric female pelvic pathologies.
  • Common indications include pelvic pain, fetal cysts, urogenital malformations, precocious puberty, and abnormal bleeding or discharge.
  • Accurate diagnosis relies on recognizing normal anatomy and understanding differential diagnoses.

Conclusions:

  • Ultrasound is the imaging modality of choice for pediatric female pelvic evaluation.
  • Knowledge of normal anatomy and differential diagnoses is essential for effective diagnosis.
  • This imaging approach aids in managing various gynecologic and urologic conditions in children.

Related Concept Videos

Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography01:24

Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography

IntroductionUltrasonography, or renal ultrasound, is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and surrounding tissues.Indications for Urinary System UltrasonographyUrinary system ultrasonography is indicated in various clinical scenarios, such as:Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis): To detect and monitor the size and presence of kidney or urinary tract stones.Hydronephrosis: To assess the dilation of the renal pelvis and...
Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography01:20

Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography

Introduction:
Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
This diagnostic tool allows the clinician to visually inspect internal structures within the abdomen, including vital organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...
Ultrasonography01:17

Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the body's internal structures. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure that does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, making it widely used in various medical fields. Ultrasonography is used to study heart function, blood flow in the neck or extremities, certain conditions such as gallbladder disease, and fetal growth and development.
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...
Assessment of the Abdomen II: Percussion01:18

Assessment of the Abdomen II: Percussion

Percussion is a fundamental technique used to assess the liver, spleen, and abdominal organs by tapping the abdomen and interpreting the resulting sounds. This method helps identify fluid, distention, and masses through variations in sound, such as the high-pitched tympany of air-filled areas and the dullness of solid masses. Understanding how to percuss these organs provides valuable information for healthcare professionals in diagnosing conditions early.
Percussion
Percussion is an essential...
Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System III: Percussion and Auscultation01:22

Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System III: Percussion and Auscultation

The genitourinary system maintains the body's fluid balance, waste excretion, and overall homeostasis. Proper assessment is essential for early detection of disorders, with percussion and auscultation integral to this evaluation. These methods help identify signs of kidney or bladder issues and provide important diagnostic clues.Percussion for Kidney TendernessPercussion is used to assess tenderness and detect kidney and bladder abnormalities. A common method for determining kidney tenderness...
Ultrasound II: Endoscopic Ultrasound and FibroScan01:25

Ultrasound II: Endoscopic Ultrasound and FibroScan

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) and FibroScan are valuable diagnostic tools in gastroenterology and hepatology, each with specific applications and techniques.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):