Pediatric and Adolescent Pelvic Masses

What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric and Adolescent Pelvic Masses?

Not all pelvic masses produce symptoms. But the most common symptoms can include:

• Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder

• Pelvic pain

• Nausea or vomiting

• Swelling or a bloated feeling in the abdomen

How are Pediatric and Adolescent Pelvic Masses diagnosed?

Diagnosis and treatment of pelvic masses in childhood and adolescence is a complex process requiring specialized techniques by doctors experienced in treating conditions of girls and young women.

Your doctor will do a physical exam of your child, including a pelvic exam (depending on the age of the child), and will ask about your family history and your child’s symptoms. Additional tests may include:

• Imaging studies, such as a pelvis ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

• Laparoscopic procedure which uses tiny instruments inserted through a small incision in the lower abdomen to view the internal organs

• Urine and blood tests

What are the causes of Pediatric and Adolescent Pelvic Masses?

A pelvic mass can have a variety of causes depending on the type of mass it is.

How are Pediatric and Adolescent Pelvic Masses treated?

Once the cause of the mass is identified, your doctor will determine an appropriate treatment plan based on the nature of the mass, its size and position within the pelvis, symptoms, age of your child and risk factors. Special care is taken to preserve your child’s ability to have children, whenever possible. Most pelvic masses in girls are benign conditions, but early diagnosis is critical for recovery. With proper treatment, many girls with pelvic masses can recover well.

Although medical management is possible for treating many types of pelvic masses, surgery often provides the highest success rates. If cancer is detected, treatment may include surgery alone, or a combination of surgery and chemotherapy.