Subcutaneous Lesions In Childhood: When to Follow, When to Biopsy, When to Resect?

Subcutaneous lesions in the pediatric population represent a common yet challenging issue in clinical practice. While most subcutaneous lumps in children are benign and can often be characterized based on their anatomical location and clinical history, differentiating benign from malignant etiologies remains a significant challenge. Despite advancements in imaging technologies, diagnostic uncertainty persists, frequently leading to unnecessary surgical interventions, particularly in ambiguous cases. High-frequency ultrasonography has substantially improved the assessment of soft tissue lesions by enabling more precise correlations between clinical findings and imaging characteristics. Nevertheless, important questions remain regarding optimal strategies to avoid overtreatment while ensuring timely identification of malignancies in this vulnerable population.Recent studies underscore the value of integrating clinical expertise with advanced imaging modalities in the evaluation of pediatric soft tissue lesions. Evidence suggests that detailed clinical examination encompassing palpability, texture, mobility, and symptomatology combined with high resolution sonographic imaging can greatly assist in distinguishing benign from malignant lesions. However, the diagnostic process is often hindered by overlapping features among various soft tissue abnormalities, leading to ongoing debate about the reliability and limitations of non-invasive imaging compared with the need for biopsy or surgical intervention. Despite notable progress, there remain significant gaps in standardized diagnostic protocols, consensus-based management pathways, and education regarding common diagnostic pitfalls.This Research Topic aims to refine understanding of pediatric subcutaneous lesions by fostering multidisciplinary insights into their clinical and radiological evaluation. Its objectives include clarifying distinguishing features of ambiguous lesions, developing and validating diagnostic strategies that leverage sonography and complementary imaging, and establishing evidence-based criteria for surgical versus conservative management. Additionally, the topic seeks to highlight common diagnostic pitfalls and promote the dissemination of educational cases to enhance clinician awareness and decision-making.This Research Topic focuses on the comprehensive evaluation and management of subcutaneous lesions in children, with particular emphasis on diagnostic accuracy and judicious therapeutic intervention. Submissions should address the clinical, imaging, and diagnostic aspects of entities that initially present as ambiguous subcutaneous masses during childhood. To gather further insights into pediatric subcutaneous lesion, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Sonographic and MRI characteristics of the lesion, including an exact description of lesion’s anatomical shape / morphology• Differential diagnosis of the lesion, with justification for each consideration• Indication and rationale for biopsy or surgical intervention• Potential educational pitfalls in the diagnosis or treatment of presented lesionThe Research Topic invites diverse article formats, including original research, case reports, systematic reviews, or other research studies. We also welcome proposals for diagnostic algorithms of specific lesions integrating imaging and clinical assessment. Topic editors: Emir Q. Haxhija, Aleksandar Vlahovic Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77352/subcutaneous-lesions-in-childhood-when-to-follow-when-to-biopsy-when-to-resect