[Pelvic masses in childhood: ultrasonographic imaging]

The echographic appearance of pelvic masses in children was examined in 38 patients. Sonography was correct in determining the site of origin in all cases. Cystic uterine masses and cystic ovarian masses were the most specific, representing hydrometrocolpos and benign ovarian cysts. A nonspecific sonographic pattern was encountered with complex masses, which proved to be ovarian teratomas, hemorrhagic ovarian cysts and pelvic abscesses. Although a number of characteristic features of teratomes have been described, these signs were seen very rarely in children.