Polyarteritis nodosa in children: radiological aspects and diagnostic correlation.

The radiological findings in 14 children with polyarteritis nodosa (PN) were evaluated in relation to clinical, laboratory, and histological findings. In this series, there were two major groups of radiological findings, one associated with renal insufficiency and the other with intestinal vascular insufficiency. No radiographic finding was pathognomonic. Two patients were suspected of having small bowel intussusception (SBI), and SBI was documented at laparotomy in a third patient. The diagnosis and management of PN in children is dependent upon the correlation of clinical and laboratory findings. Associated pertinent radiological features which may be useful in the management of children with PN are reviewed.