Imaging the pediatric prostate

The prostate gland is not often the target of imaging in children but may be imaged during investigation of symptoms related to the lower genitourinary tract such as hematuria, urinary retention, dysuria, and incontinence or during an evaluation for suspected congenital anomalies. Ultrasound and voiding cystourethrography are useful for initial evaluation of congenital and neoplastic disorders of the prostate. MR imaging and CT are useful in delineating more detailed anatomy before surgical planning and in determining the organ of origin in a patient who has a large pelvic mass.