
Pulmonary and mediastinal diseases in infants and children encompass a diverse group of congenital and acquired disorders. Clinical presentations are often nonspecific, causing delayed or missed diagnoses. Chest radiography, though commonly used initially, often necessitates further evaluation with computed tomography (CT), which poses risks due to ionizing radiation, especially with repeated imaging [1].
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a radiation-free alternative to CT, providing excellent soft-tissue contrast and functional insights. Historically limited by challenges such as low lung proton density and air-tissue interface, advancements in MRI technology have significantly enhanced its utility. MRI is now sensitive for detecting and characterizing solid lung lesions, infiltrative disorders, respiratory mechanics, ventilation, perfusion, and mediastinal pathologies without the risks of ionizing radiation [2,3].