Pediatric Pelvic Sonography

Question 1

Describe the sonographic appearance of the normal newborn uterus.

Answer 1

• cervix twice the length of the uterine body (e.g., cervix 2/3 of total uterine size, body 1/3)
• hyperechoic endometrium (due to maternal hormonal influence in utero)
• total length approximately 3cm, AP dimension is 0.5-1cm
• ovaries may be found anywhere between the lower poles of the kidneys and the true pelvis

Question 2

Describe the sonographic appearance of the uterus at 2-3 months of age.

Answer 2

• 2.5 - 3cm total length, with the cervix and body equal in length (e.g., cervix 1/2 of total uterine size, body 1/2)
• endometrial stripe is usually not delineated
• maintains infantile appearance until age 7
• small cysts may be seen in ovaries,
  - usually <9mm
  - may be as large as 17mm

Question 3

When does follicular development happen?

Answer 3

Prior to menarche