[Sonographic diagnosis of abdominal tumors in childhood].

The analysis of the case histories of 27 patients suffering from abdominal tumors - mainly localized within the retroperitoneal space - and observed during the last 4 years shows that sonography is the method of choice if an abdominal tumor is suspected. In only a few cases however a definite diagnosis was possible. In most cases additional roentgenologic methods such as intravenous pyelography, computerized tomography, rarely angiography and barium study were needed to get more information for diagnosis and treatment. On the other hand sonography should also be performed when there are uncharacteristic and ambiguous symptoms in order to detect tumors or systemic lymphatic diseases. Indication, results and sono-histologic patterns are discussed as is the importance of other imaging methods. Personal experience influencing the diagnostic procedure of dealing with abdominal tumors in children is reported in the second part of the paper including technical requirements of sonography equipment for use in children.