Imaging of Childhood Vasculitis

Abstract

Pediatric vasculitides are rare conditions that can represent a diagnostic challenge because symptoms are usually aspecific and variable. Symptoms are related to the size of the involved vessel, extension of disease, and organs affected. The outcome is closely linked to an early diagnosis and proper treatment. Diagnostic imaging allows visualization of the involvement of large-size and medium-size vessels and assesses end-organ changes and response to therapy, thus playing a pivotal role in the diagnosis and treatment. This article explores the general features of pediatric vasculitis and discusses the imaging approach and the most common diagnostic findings.

Keywords: Children; Computed tomography; MR imaging; Ultrasound; Vasculitis.