Lesions involving the outer surface of the bone in children: a pictorial review

BACKGROUND: Lesions involving the outer cortical surface of the bone occur quite often among children. Broadly, these include benign cortical, juxtacortical and periarticular lesions, dysplasias affecting the cortical bone, regional and diffuse periosteal pathology and malignant tumours. Some of these lesions are unique to the paediatric population; others are more frequently seen among children than adults — yet others have an adult predilection but can occasionally be seen in children. METHODS: A complete list of differential considerations for lesions involving the outer cortical surface of the bone in children is presented. Imaging characteristics on plain film radiography and MR are described in association with multiple examples and illustrations. CONCLUSION: A pictorial review detailing the imaging features of surface lesions of the bone in children will be a useful aide for both radiologists and their clinical colleagues, and will help them sort their way through the maze of differential diagnoses for these abnormalities. Teaching Points • Surface lesions of bones in children comprise a distinct entity and differ from those in adults. • Imaging plays an important role towards classifying surface lesions of bones in children. • MRI features may be characteristic and aid precise diagnosis, thus guiding further management.