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Article
Primary liver tumors in pediatric patients: proper imaging technique for diagnosis and staging
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  • Joseph Rozell, MD, Baystate Health
  • Tara Catanzano, MD, Baystate Health
  • Stanley Polansky, MD, Baystate Health
  • Dmitry Rakita, MD, Baystate Health
  • Lindsay Fox, MD, Baystate Health
Document Type
Article, Peer-reviewed
Publication Date
8-1-2014
Abstract

Liver tumors in children are rare and comprise a diverse set of both benign and malignant lesions, most of which are not clinically detected until they are large and often difficult to resect. Technological advances in diagnostic imaging have greatly influenced the surgical planning of these lesions and ultimately the clinical outcome. The intent of this article is to present an imaging algorithm for the effective and efficient workup of liver tumors in pediatric patients. This includes the appropriate timing and use of various imaging modalities, such as conventional radiographs, ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. This article also addresses the use of sedation, intravenous contrast agents, and the benefits and limitations of specific imaging modalities. An overview of the radiologic and pathologic findings in common liver lesions in pediatric patients, as well as individual case examples demonstrating the use of the proposed workup algorithm, is provided.

Citation Information
Rozell JM, Catanzano T, Polansky SM, Rakita D, Fox L. Primary liver tumors in pediatric patients: proper imaging technique for diagnosis and staging. Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 2014 Aug;35(4):382-93.