Investigation of an abdominal mass in childhood

Abstract

With all abdominal masses, an assessment of the child's age and clinical state is important in determining the diagnosis. Ultrasound is the primary imaging modality. Nuclear scintigraphy, CT and MRI are used for malignant or complicated cases. Hydronephrosis is the commonest cause in the neonate. Wilm's tumour and neuroblastoma are the commonest malignant tumours. Neuroblastoma often contains calcium and encases the major abdominal vessels. Wilm's tumour displaces the central vessels and rarely calcifies. All malignant tumours should be investigated using well defined protocols defined by the UK Children's Cancer Study Group.