Diagnosis of superficial soft tissue masses in children by high-resolution ultrasound

Objective To investigate the characteristics of superficial soft tissue masses in children by high-resolution ultrasound and to present the diagnostic idea. Methods The sonographic features of superficial soft tissue masses in 101 children confirmed by pathology were retrospectively analyzed. Results Most of the superficial soft tissue masses in children were benign and could be generally divided into cystic type and solid type(98/101,97.03%).The former type was mainly epidermoid cysts and hematoma(58.14%,25/43),and the latter type was mainly composed of lipoma and hemangioma(41.81%,23/55).While the malignant masses were characterized by invasive growth,irregular shape,unclear boundary,incomplete capsule,heterogeneous echo and high resistance vascularity inside the tumors. Conclusion When sonologists examine superficial soft tissue masses in children,accurate diagnosis could be made according to the sonographic characteristics and clinical manifestations in most cases,and reliable imaging evidences can be provided for clinical management.