Tumors of the pediatric chest

A wide spectrum of malignant and benign diseases can present as tumors involving the chest in children. The imaging evaluation of these children is initially directed by clinical presentation and usually begins with a chest radiograph. Further imaging with CT, MRI, or rarely ultrasonography may be performed to better detect, localize, or characterize the lesion(s). The differential diagnosis of these tumors is guided not only by tumor location and characterization, but also by patient age and clinical presentation. Familiarity with the clinical and radiographic aspects of these diseases will help the radiologist to continue to play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of these children.