Recent advances in pediatric pulmonary imaging

Beyond basic screening chest radiographs, modern cross-sectional imaging with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrates more detailed anatomic and pathologic information than previously possible. This information is important if it influences decision-making during patient care and management and adds to the understanding of disease processes. In this article we review recent developments in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, advantages and limitations of these techniques in the pediatric chest, and the role of cross-sectional imaging in a series of selected pulmonary topics. In the process, we provide a brief preview of future pediatric pulmonary imaging developments.