Differential diagnosis of pediatric musculoskeletal masses

Abstract

MR imaging plays a major role in the evaluation of children with soft tissue and bone tumors. While the imaging characteristics of these lesions are often nonspecific, MR imaging provides valuable information on the extent of disease and relationship of tumors to the neurovascular bundle and other vital structures. This article reviews the radiographic and MR imaging appearances and clinical presentations of a wide range of musculoskeletal masses that occur in children.