Evaluation and management of pediatric bone lesions

Bone abnormalities on pediatric radiographs are not uncommon findings for both the general orthopedist as well as the specialist. Although the majority of lesions encountered are benign, the treating physician should also be aware of more concerning diagnoses. General orthopedists and pediatric orthopedists should exhibit a basic level of comfort with working up and diagnosing these benign lesions. When evaluating the pediatric patient with a bone lesion it is crucial to keep in mind important aspects of the clinical history, physical exam, and radiographic findings. Here we provide a review of important findings for the orthopedic surgeon in each of these areas. Many times diagnoses can be made with these alone. With better understanding of clinical and radiographic features of these lesions the orthopedist should be comfortable knowing which lesions he or she can reasonably treat and which should be referred to an oncologic specialist.