How does growing bone respond to trauma, and how is this different from mature bone? The cartilaginous physis separates the epiphysis from the metaphysis. Pediatric ligaments and tendons are relatively stronger than growing bone (in contrast to adults). Given an equivalent force applied to growing versus mature bone, the growing bone has a higher likelihood …
Trilateral Retinoblastoma Bilateral retinoblastomas often occur in the familial form of the disease, which is characterized genetically as a mutation in the Rb1 tumor suppressor gene. These patients are also at risk for developing a third intracranial tumor, usually in the pineal gland, the so-called third eye. Trilateral retinoblastoma involves tumor in both eyes and a metachronous …
How is sacrococcygeal teratoma evaluated? Sacrococcygeal teratoma may be detected in utero with US or via fetal MRI. Because the mass may be cystic, the differential diagnosis may include a meningocele (outpouching of meninges through a defect in the posterior elements of the lumbosacral spine). High-output cardiac failure caused by a teratoma may result in …
Where do cholesteatomas typically arise A cholesteatoma is squamous epithelium that is trapped in the skull base, often creating expansion and erosion of adjacent bony structures. They frequently occur in the middle ear, in the mesotympanum or epitympanum. Cholesteatomas may be congenital, in which case they are well defined and rounded and typically occur near …
Fibromatosis Colli Fibromatosis colli is benign focal or fusiform enlargement of the sternocleidomastoid muscle in infants that usually regresses by 6 to 8 months of age. It is thought to be due to trauma to the sternocleidomastoid muscle or to a positioning abnormality in utero. Ultrasound of the muscle shows either diffuse enlargement or a …
What is the differential diagnosis for a pediatric cystic neck mass? This has a broad differential that may be narrowed by location. Type II branchial cleft cysts (the most common) are suprahyoid lesions that classically push the sternocleidomastoid muscle posteriorly and have a tongue of tissue arising between the external and internal carotid arteries. Thyroglossal …
Differential diagnosis for a cystic neck mass in children Read More »
Differential diagnosis for causes of leukocoria Leukocoria is defined as an abnormal white pupillary reflex. Retinoblastoma is the most concerning cause. Other causes include congenital cataract, infection (e.g., toxocariasis), persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous, retinopathy of prematurity, and Coats disease (fusiform dilation of retinal vessels, often with associated retinal detachment and subretinal exudate). Historical clues are …