Pediatric congenital pulmonary malformations: key findings at imaging

Abstract

Pediatric congenital pulmonary malformations are rare abnormalities which may affect airways, pulmonary parenchyma, and vasculature and diagnostic imaging plays a significant role in their identification and characterization. Although, nowadays, often the diagnosis of this heterogeneous group of malformations is performed prenatally by ultrasound and/or fetal magnetic resonance, after birth, computed tomography represents the main technique. Radiographs are often used as first line diagnostic tool while magnetic resonance demonstrated to be especially beneficial to investigate some malformations such as bronchogenic cysts. Therefore, radiologists should be aware of the main features associated with such alterations to guarantee a prompt diagnosis and, if necessary, guide towards the optimal treatment. Aim of this pictorial review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the typical features of congenital pulmonary malformations at imaging supporting general and pediatric radiologists in the diagnostic process.