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Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric salivary gland diseases: a guide to the differential diagnosis

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Abstract

Salivary gland pathologies in children are frequent, particularly viral infections, but rarely need cross-sectional imaging. However, when a mass involves the salivary spaces (primarily or as a secondary invasion from other neck spaces) it may pose problems in the differential diagnosis and in immediate management. Infrequently, systemic autoimmune diseases can also involve the salivary parenchyma in children and correctly interpreting the constellation of findings in the whole body is critical for the diagnosis. Distinguishing between cystic and solid masses is the first step for radiologists in order to narrow down the diagnosis. Location and spatial extension are the most important elements differentiating cystic masses, while signal characteristics, internal structure and local invasion help in the differential diagnosis of solid masses.

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  1. Department of Radiology, Neuroradiology Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK

    Felice D’Arco

  2. Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences,, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy

    Lorenzo Ugga

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  1. Felice D’Arco
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Correspondence to Felice D’Arco.

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D’Arco, F., Ugga, L. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric salivary gland diseases: a guide to the differential diagnosis. Pediatr Radiol 50, 1293–1307 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-020-04684-3

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