Ultrasound Differentiation of Two Pediatric Abdominal Masses

Neuroblastoma and Wilms' tumor are the two most common abdominal malignancies encountered in pediatric patients. Neuroblastoma generally arises from the adrenal gland, whereas Wilms' tumors arise from the kidney. Recognition of the clinical symptoms, laboratory values, and sonographic appearances of these two entities can provide valuable information on location and extent of the neoplasm. Early detection of a neoplasm improves the survival rate of patients. The purpose of this article is to review characteristics and features of neuroblastoma and Wilms' tumor that will aid in the differential diagnosis of these tumors.