Ultrasonography of the female pelvis in childhood and adolescence

Abstract

The age of the patient is crucial in the consideration of differential diagnoses for pelvic disease. This is especially true in the pediatric population. Ultrasonography is the first, and often only, imaging required for female babies, children, and young adults who present with signs and symptoms referable to the pelvis. Usually, children come to attention because of pelvic mass, pelvic pain, ambiguous genitalia, or abnormal sexual development. It should be remembered that congenital anomalies may not become apparent until the onset of puberty. In all cases, good practice requires that adnexal and uterine anatomy and screening views of each kidney are documented on hard copy. Further evaluation, which consists of MR or CT scanning, depends on the results of the ultrasonograms, the clinical examination, and acuity of the problem.