Neck masses in infants and children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Oncology

Background:

• Neck masses are frequent in pediatric populations, encompassing both inflammatory and tumoral origins.
• The majority of pediatric neck masses exhibit benign characteristics, necessitating accurate diagnostic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the imaging characteristics of diverse neck masses encountered in infants and children.
• To elucidate the utility of various imaging modalities in the evaluation of pediatric neck masses.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of routine radiography findings in pediatric neck masses.
• Evaluation of ultrasound's role in characterizing infant and child neck masses.
• Analysis of computed tomography (CT) scan applications for neck mass imaging.
• Review of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of pediatric neck lesions.
• Assessment of nuclear scintigraphy utility in the diagnostic workup of neck masses.

Main Results:

• Imaging findings vary significantly based on the underlying etiology (inflammatory vs. tumoral) of pediatric neck masses.
• Ultrasound is often the initial imaging modality of choice due to its accessibility and safety.
• CT and MR imaging provide detailed anatomical information crucial for complex or suspected neoplastic cases.
• Nuclear scintigraphy can offer functional information, particularly for certain inflammatory or functional masses.

Conclusions:

• A multi-modal imaging approach is essential for the accurate diagnosis and management of neck masses in children.
• Understanding the specific imaging characteristics of different neck masses aids in differentiating benign from potentially malignant conditions.
• Radiologists play a critical role in guiding the appropriate selection and interpretation of imaging studies for pediatric neck masses.