- To exhibit CT, MRI and PET features of female pelvic masses.

- To review and illustrate female pelvic masses accounting from different origins and entities.

- To provide a practical radiological algorithmic approach for the diagnosis of unknown female pelvic masses.

Knowledge of the female pelvic anatomy is essential to further understand the step-by-step algorithm for evaluating an unknown pelvic mass (Fig.1). Many different approaches to a female pelvic mass have been published in the literature. In this educational presentation, a new schematical approach is proposed based on the likelihood of their site of origin (Fig.2).

CT is an outstanding imaging modality for gynecological cancer staging, as well as in the emergency setting.

MRI is currently the best diagnostic imaging method for the study of indeterminate US masses or partially visualized pelvic masses. MRI offers a wider field of view, an excellent soft tissue contrast and moderate spatial resolution, permitting to depict pelvic structures that cannot be resolved with other imaging techniques.

FDG-PET/CT can provide valuable information to help...

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Radiologists should be aware of the existing tools to determine the localization of a female pelvic mass, to stablish the correct diagnosis and to be an aid in treatment planning. A stepwise algorithmic approach is presented as a problem-solving tool when facing an unknown female pelvic mass.