The role of ultrasound in the management of ovarian masses in children

A retrospective study of 64 girls with ovarian cysts and tumours, diagnosed by ultrasound over 4 years, was undertaken. Most ovarian cysts were benign and conservative management with serial ultrasound scans helped to avoid unnecessary surgery. The incidence of surgery decreased from 18 operations in the first 2 years of the study to 10 operations in the second 2 years. All children for whom surgery is considered should have a pre-operative scan to determine whether the cyst has resolved. Immediate surgery is indicated in children who have a palpable mass, a solid mass, a mass associated with calcification, or a mass associated with persistent pyrexia. Appendix abscesses may mimic ovarian masses and can be correctly diagnosed by ultrasound.