• Numerous techniques are required to provide optimal MR images in paediatric patients. • Radial free-breathing contrast-enhanced acquisition demonstrated excellent image quality. • Image quality and lesion conspicuity were better with radial than Cartesian acquisition. • More lesions were detected on contrast-enhanced radial than on Cartesian acquisition. • Radial GRE can be used for performing abdominopelvic MRI in paediatric patients.

Gadolinium-based contrast agents can increase the accuracy and expediency of an MRI examination. However the benefits of a contrast-enhanced scan must be carefully weighed against the well-documented risks associated with administration of exogenous contrast media. The purpose of this review is to discuss commercially available gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) in the context of pediatric radiology. We discuss the chemistry, regulatory status, safety and clinical applications, with particular emphasis on imaging of the blood vessels, heart, hepatobiliary tree and central nervous system. We also discuss non-GBCA MRI contrast agents that are less frequently used or not commercially available.

Adolescents may have imaging findings consistent with os acromiale. The diagnosis of os acromiale should be based on imaging features and not limited by age.

The development of white matter signal abnormalities on magnetic resonance brain imaging (MRI) in children and young adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia has been well documented. Existing theories regarding the development of these findings include effects of electrolyte imbalances, effects of disease-related hormone abnormalities, and non-physiologic long-term administration of corticosteroids. Many of the patients previously described were normal neurologically. We describe the case of white matter signal abnormalities in a neonate with salt-wasting congenital adrenal hyperplasia who presented with seizures during the first week of life, possibly due to a transient blood calcium disturbance. This case suggests that white matter changes are not simply the result of chronic insults and that they may not always be subclinical.

CSI techniques can help to differentiate pathologic processes that replace marrow in children from those that do not.