Purpose or Case Report: Bladder masses are periodically encountered in the pediatric population, yet there are few resources to guide appropriate imaging assessment of pediatric bladder masses. A pediatric bladder mass may be encountered in a wide variety of clinical settings, ranging from investigation of a specific symptom or laboratory abnormality to an incidental finding during routine evaluation. Familiarity with the spectrum of benign and neoplastic processes that may give rise to pediatric bladder masses increases the likelihood of timely and accurate diagnosis and management.
Methods & Materials: A literature review was performed and salient cases were collected. The information provided in this educational exhibit will allow the reader to do the following:
1. Review the overall incidence of bladder pathology in pediatric patients
2. Learn the optimal imaging assessment of bladder lesions in children including the role of fluoroscopy, US, CT and MRI
3. Understand the imaging features of common benign bladder lesions
4. Understand the imaging features of common malignant bladder neoplasms
5. Discuss potential pitfalls in bladder imaging in children, including post-operative assessment following vesicoureteral reflux or bladder augmentation surgeries
6. Briefly describe common surgical and non-surgical management approaches to bladder masses in children
Results: Ultrasound is the first-line modality for imaging bladder lesions in the pediatric population, with CT and MRI serving as useful adjuncts for further evaluation when a potential neoplastic process is suspected.
Conclusions: Imaging plays an important role in the evaluation and management of pediatric bladder masses, as characteristic imaging features can help guide appropriate management decisions.