Lumbosacral osseous tumors in children

Eur J Radiol. 2008 Feb;65(2):257-69. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2007.03.030. Epub 2007 May 10.

Abstract

A wide variety of benign and malignant neoplasms in children involve the lumbosacral region. When a solitary lesion of the lower spine occurs, tumors or tumor-like lesions represent an important group of entities for diagnostic consideration. Diagnostic investigation should begin with a patient history, physical examination, laboratory testing, and radiography. Roentgenograms, which demonstrate bone deviations, should be used as an initial examination. The results should direct further imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and bone scintigraphy. CT should be the chosen modality for delineating tumoral osteoid matrix formation. MRI shows soft-tissue masses and medullary infiltration better than any other radiological modality. A multimodal radiological approach is helpful in the overall evaluation and differential diagnosis of vertebral lesions in children. Although imaging features, especially of benign lesions, may yield a high percentage of accurate diagnoses, in cases with radiological findings highly suggestive of malignancy, a specific diagnosis cannot always be made, and histopathological findings are essential to achieve the diagnosis that will guide the therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Lumbosacral Region*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / diagnosis
  • Spinal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Contrast Media