Pediatric Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Imaging Spectrum and Staging Pearls

A practical radiology review of Pediatric Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Imaging Spectrum and Staging Pearls, focused on imaging findings, differential diagnosis, reporting points, and high-yield teaching pearls.

Overview

• NHL = 7% of pediatric malignancies.
• CAYA (Children, Adolescents, Young Adults) → distinct subtypes, presentations, outcomes.
• Major histologic types: Burkitt (40%), lymphoblastic (30%), DLBCL (20%), ALCL (10%).
• Pediatric staging: St. Jude / IPNHLSS (extranodal disease focus).

Imaging Modalities

• US/CT/MRI = anatomic evaluation; PET/CT adds metabolic info.
• DWI MRI → high signal + low ADC (cellularity marker).
• WB MRI (STIR/DWI) = radiation-free alternative for staging & follow-up.
• PET/MRI → ↓ radiation ~80%, “one-stop-shop” hybrid imaging.

Abdomen & Pelvis Findings

》GI tract → Burkitt & DLBCL predominate; ileocecal region; aneurysmal bowel dilatation; intussusception possible.