1
|
Cho N, Koti AS. Identifying inflicted injuries in infants and young children. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2024; 50:101138. [PMID: 38964814 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2024.101138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Child physical abuse is a common cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality. Up to half of all children presenting with abusive injuries have a history of a prior suspicious injury, suggesting a pattern of repeated physical abuse. Medical providers are responsible for identifying children with suspicious injuries, completing mandated reporting to child protective services for investigation, and screening for occult injuries and underlying medical conditions that can predispose to injuries. Early identification of inflicted injuries appropriate evaluations may serve as an opportunity for life-saving intervention and prevent further escalation of abuse. However, identification of abuse can be challenging. This article will review both physical exam findings and injuries that suggest abuse as well as the evaluation and management of physical abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nara Cho
- Division of Child and Family Advocacy, Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, 655 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43205, United States; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, United States.
| | - Ajay S Koti
- Safe Child and Adolescent Network, Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, United States; University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
[Important insights into the context and history of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma (AHT)]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2024; 121:331-332. [PMID: 38443492 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-024-02000-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
|
3
|
Squier W. Retinodural haemorrhage of infancy, abusive head trauma, shaken baby syndrome: The continuing quest for evidence. Dev Med Child Neurol 2024; 66:290-297. [PMID: 37353945 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
The shaken baby syndrome was originally proposed in the 1970s without any formal scientific basis. Once data generated by scientific research was available, the hypothesis became controversial. There developed essentially two sides in the debate. One side claimed that the clinical triad of subdural haemorrhage, retinal haemorrhage, and encephalopathy, or its components, is evidence that an infant has been shaken. The other side stated this is not a scientifically valid proposal and that alternative causes, such as low falls and natural diseases, should be considered. The controversy continues, but the contours have shifted. During the last 15 years, research has shown that the triad is not sufficient to infer shaking or abuse and the shaking hypothesis does not meet the standards of evidence-based medicine. This raises the issue of whether it is fit for either clinical practice or for the courtroom; evidence presented to the courts must be unassailable. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: There is insufficient scientific evidence to assume that an infant with the triad of subdural haemorrhage (SDH), retinal haemorrhage, and encephalopathy must have been shaken. Biomechanical and animal studies have failed to support the hypothesis that shaking can cause SDH and retinal haemorrhage. Patterns of retinal haemorrhage cannot distinguish abuse. Retinal haemorrhages are commonly associated with extracerebral fluid collections (including SDH) but not with shaking. Infants can develop SDH, retinal haemorrhage, and encephalopathy from natural diseases and falls as low as 1 foot. The shaking hypothesis and the literature on which it depends do not meet the standards of evidence-based medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Waney Squier
- Department of Neuropathology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lynøe N, Eriksson A. Disguised incorporation bias and meta-analysis of diagnostic accuracy studies. Acta Paediatr 2024; 113:503-505. [PMID: 38115697 DOI: 10.1111/apa.17076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Niels Lynøe
- Centre for Healthcare Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Eriksson
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Forensic Medicine, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sokoloff M, Feldman KW, Levin AV, Rockter A, Armijo-Garcia V, Musick M, Weeks K, Haney SB, Marinello M, Herman BE, Frazier TN, Carroll CL, Hymel KP. Retinal hemorrhage variation in inertial versus contact head injuries. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 149:106606. [PMID: 38134727 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abusive head trauma (AHT) is frequently accompanied by dense/extensive retinal hemorrhages to the periphery with or without retinoschisis (complex retinal hemorrhages, cRH). cRH are uncommon without AHT or major trauma. OBJECTIVE The study objectives were to determine whether cRH are associated with inertial vs. contact mechanisms and are primary vs. secondary injuries. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING This retrospective study utilized a de-identified PediBIRN database of 701 children <3-years-old presenting to intensive care for head trauma. Children with motor vehicle related trauma and preexisting brain abnormalities were excluded. All had imaging showing head injury and a dedicated ophthalmology examination. METHODS Contact injuries included craniofacial soft tissue injuries, skull fractures and epidural hematoma. Inertial injuries included acute impairment or loss of consciousness and/or bilateral and/or interhemispheric subdural hemorrhage. Abuse was defined in two ways, by 1) predetermined criteria and 2) caretaking physicians/multidisciplinary team's diagnostic consensus. RESULTS PediBIRN subjects with cRH frequently experienced inertial injury (99.4 % (308/310, OR = 53.74 (16.91-170.77)) but infrequently isolated contact trauma (0.6 % (2/310), OR = 0.02 (0.0004-0.06)). Inertial injuries predominated over contact trauma among children with cRH sorted AHT by predetermined criteria (99.1 % (237/239), OR = 20.20 (6.09-67.01) vs 0.5 % (2/339), OR = 0.04 (0.01-0.17)). Fifty-nine percent of patients with cRH, <24 h altered consciousness, and inertial injuries lacked imaging evidence of brain hypoxia, ischemia, or swelling. CONCLUSIONS cRH are significantly associated with inertial angular acceleration forces. They can occur without brain hypoxia, ischemia or swelling suggesting they are not secondary injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Sokoloff
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Intensive Care, Sacred Heart Children's Hospital, Spokane, WA, United States of America.
| | - Kenneth W Feldman
- Department of Pediatrics, Seattle Children's, University of Washington's Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Pediatrics, Safe Child and Adolescent Network, Seattle Children's, Seattle, WA, United States of America.
| | - Alex V Levin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Flaum Eye Institute, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States of America.
| | - Adam Rockter
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, United States of America.
| | - Veronica Armijo-Garcia
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States of America.
| | - Matthew Musick
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, United States of America.
| | - Kerri Weeks
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Wichita, KS, United States of America.
| | - Suzanne B Haney
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States of America.
| | - Mark Marinello
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU, Richmond, VA, United States of America.
| | - Bruce E Herman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America.
| | - Terra N Frazier
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, United States of America.
| | - Christopher L Carroll
- Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT, United States of America.
| | - Kent P Hymel
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kachelski C, Gavin K, Head H, Horton D, Anderst J. A lucid interval in a victim of abusive head trauma with multiple parenchymal lacerations. J Forensic Leg Med 2024; 101:102638. [PMID: 38185064 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2023.102638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) is a leading cause of abusive deaths in children under age one. AHT can include intracranial hemorrhages, hypoxic ischemic injury, or parenchymal lacerations. Most infants with parenchymal lacerations present with acute neurological symptoms. There has been some published literature on lucid intervals in cases of AHT; however, there has not been a described lucid interval with parenchymal lacerations. Parenchymal lacerations typically present with acute symptomatology such as seizures, alteration in mental status, or increased fussiness/lethargy given the damage to neurons and brain structure. We present a case of a healthy 2-month-old who ultimately was diagnosed with AHT and three parenchymal lacerations and had a 2.5 hour period of normal neurological status prior to acute decompensation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cree Kachelski
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Mayo Clinic Center for Safe and Healthy Children and Adolescents, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| | - Kelsey Gavin
- Graduate Medical Education, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Hayden Head
- Division of Radiology, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Danielle Horton
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - James Anderst
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sacco MA, Gualtieri S, Tarda L, Ricci P, Aquila I. Clinical and Forensic Investigation Protocols for Diagnosing Abusive Head Trauma: A Literature Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3093. [PMID: 37835835 PMCID: PMC10572508 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13193093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) represents a very serious global public health problem. Prevention of these episodes is essential to reduce the morbidity and mortality of this phenomenon. All healthcare professionals should be able to recognize the signs of abuse. However, diagnosis is very complex as the signs are often blurred and cannot be recognized with certainty without carrying out adequate instrumental investigations. It has been calculated that approximately one-third of AHT cases remain undetected and require more than one medical visit to be correctly interpreted and diagnosed. On the other hand, the literature has recently also emphasized the problems related to possible false diagnoses of abuse and the numerous family and personal repercussions that follow from this issue. For these reasons, correct and timely recognition is essential to avoid the risk of recurrence of AHT and to start proper forensic investigations, in order to identify the offender or exonerate a suspect. The present work explores the most recent evidence of recent years in the field of AHT diagnostics through a literature review. The purpose of this article is to provide forensic pathologists with clear tools for diagnosis based on the literature. To this end, the review suggests clinical and forensic protocols aimed at the timely diagnosis of AHT in order to prevent abuse from remaining undetected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Isabella Aquila
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, “Magna Graecia” University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.A.S.); (S.G.); (L.T.); (P.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Di Fazio N, Delogu G, Morena D, Cipolloni L, Scopetti M, Mazzilli S, Frati P, Fineschi V. New Insights into the Diagnosis and Age Determination of Retinal Hemorrhages from Abusive Head Trauma: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:1722. [PMID: 37238204 PMCID: PMC10217069 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13101722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Head trauma represents the first cause of death in abused children, but diagnostic knowledge is still limited. The characteristic findings of abusive head trauma (AHT) are retinal hemorrhages (RH) and additional ocular findings, including optic nerve hemorrhages (ONH). However, etiological diagnosis must be cautious. (2) Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review (PRISMA) standards were employed, and the research focus was the current gold standard in the diagnosis and timing of abusive RH. (3) Results: Sixteen articles were included for qualitative synthesis. The importance of an early instrumental ophthalmological assessment emerged in subjects with a high suspicion of AHT, with attention to the localization, laterality, and morphology of the findings. Sometimes it is possible to observe the fundus even in deceased subjects, but the current techniques of choice consist of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography, also useful for the timing of the lesion, the autopsy, and the histological investigation, especially if performed with the use of immunohistochemical reactants against erythrocytes, leukocytes, and ischemic nerve cells. (4) Conclusions: The present review has made it possible to build an operational framework for the diagnosis and timing of cases of abusive retinal damage, but further research in the field is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Di Fazio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Giuseppe Delogu
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Donato Morena
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Matteo Scopetti
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sara Mazzilli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Macher J, Porter RS, Levin AV. Ophthalmic imaging in abusive head trauma. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 139:106106. [PMID: 36867971 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ophthalmic imaging plays an increasingly important role the evaluation of abusive head trauma, however these imaging modalities may be unfamiliar to non-ophthalmologists. OBJECTIVE To provide pediatricians and child abuse pediatric professionals with background on ophthalmic imaging techniques in the context of suspected abuse, as well as information on commercial options and costs for those interested in augmenting their ophthalmic imaging capabilities. METHODS We performed a review of the ophthalmic imaging literature for fundus photography, ocular coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, ocular ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and postmortem imaging. We also contacted individual vendors for equipment pricing information. RESULTS For each ophthalmic imaging modality, we demonstrate its role in the evaluation of abusive head trauma including indications, potential findings, sensitivity and specificity of findings for abuse, and commercial options. CONCLUSIONS Ophthalmic imaging is an important supportive component of the evaluation for abusive head trauma. When used in conjunction with clinical examination, ophthalmic imaging can improve diagnostic accuracy, support documentation, and possibly improve communication in medicolegal contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jared Macher
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Randall S Porter
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Alex V Levin
- University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA; Pediatric Ophthalmology and Ocular Genetics, Flaum Eye Institute, Rochester, NY, USA; Clinical Genetics, Golisano Children's Hospital, Rochester, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hahnemann ML, Kronsbein K, Karger B, Feld K, Banaschak S, Helmus J, Mentzel HJ, Pfeiffer H, Wittschieber D. Characterization of subdural collections in initial neuroimaging of abusive head trauma: Implications for forensic age diagnostics and clinical decision-making. Eur J Radiol 2023; 159:110652. [PMID: 36577185 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2022.110652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Subdural collections (SDCs) represent a key finding in abusive head trauma (AHT), a serious form of child physical abuse. Common SDC entities in this context are subdural hematoma (SDH), subdural hygroma (SDHy), subdural hematohygroma (SDHHy), and chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). The present study examines the prevalence of the different SDC entities and investigates the influence of the SDC diagnosis on the forensic age estimation of the injury. METHODS In this retrospective multi-center study from three German university hospitals of a 10-year period, the initial neuroimaging material (CT or MRI) of 56 children (36 males, 20 females; age median 3.9 months) with medico-legally well-documented AHT was analyzed. SDCs were characterized by determining presence, location, extension, and visual appearance, by assigning to one of the five entities, and by categorizing with three different classification systems, one of which represents a novel system based on focality and Mixed Appearance Pattern and especially developed for children with AHT. The data were correlated with demographic and clinical data. By means of court files, AHT cases were also sub-divided into confession (n = 14) and non-confession cases (n = 42) and then compared. RESULTS Most cases showed a multifocal presence of SDCs (96.4%) and the presence of a Mixed Appearance Pattern (82.1%). The most common SDC entity was the heterogeneous variant of the SDHHy (66.1%). The cSDH occurred infrequently only (3.6%). Our novel classification system illustrates that unifocal SDCs rarely occur in AHT, and that more complex SDC patterns are common. In nearly all cases (94.6%), additional signs of recently caused brain injury were present beside the SDCs. Comparison between confession and non-confession groups did not reveal any significant differences, indicating that the diagnostic criteria of AHT are robust. CONCLUSIONS Although precise dating of SDCs based on initial neuroimaging alone remains unrealistic, the exact diagnosis of the SDC entity provide an important basis for differentiation between acute trauma and chronic post-traumatic state. Therefore, especially the confirmation or exclusion of subdural neomembranes, that define the cSDH, should be considered indispensable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria L Hahnemann
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany; Section of Pediatric Radiology, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Katharina Kronsbein
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Westfalian Wilhelms University Münster, Münster, Germany; Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Westfalian Wilhelms University Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Bernd Karger
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Westfalian Wilhelms University Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Katharina Feld
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sibylle Banaschak
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Janine Helmus
- Formerly, Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Mentzel
- Section of Pediatric Radiology, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Heidi Pfeiffer
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Westfalian Wilhelms University Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Daniel Wittschieber
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
De Vito A, Ben Zvi I, D'Arco F. MR Protocols for Paediatric Neurosurgical Common Conditions: An Update Guide for Neurosurgeons. Adv Tech Stand Neurosurg 2023; 48:57-72. [PMID: 37770681 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-36785-4_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
The biggest challenge for clinicians and surgeons when it comes to radiological examinations is the ability to request the right modalities and to understand the strengths and limitations of each modality. This is particularly important in paediatric neurosciences where despite magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) being the main imaging modality, there are several protocols, technical limitations of specific scanners and issues related to sedation that need to be taken into account. In this chapter, we describe a simple approach for six common neurosurgical conditions to guide the paediatric neurosurgeons in requesting the right MR protocol and understanding the rationale of it.Paediatric neuro-oncology, epilepsy and neck/skull base protocols are discussed elsewhere in this book and therefore will not be a focus in this chapter (Bernasconi et al., Epilepsia 60:1054-68, 2019; D'Arco et al., Neuroradiology 64:1081-100; 2022; Avula et al., Childs Nerv Syst 37:2497-508; 2021).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea De Vito
- Department of Neuroradiology, H. S. Gerardo Monza, Monza, Italy.
| | - Ido Ben Zvi
- Paediatric Neurosurgery Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Felice D'Arco
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kato M, Nonaka M, Akutsu N, Narisawa A, Harada A, Park YS. Correlations of intracranial pathology and cause of head injury with retinal hemorrhage in infants and toddlers: A multicenter, retrospective study by the J-HITs (Japanese Head injury of Infants and Toddlers study) group. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283297. [PMID: 36930676 PMCID: PMC10022784 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In infants who have suffered head trauma there are two possible explanations for retinal hemorrhage (RH): direct vitreous shaking and occurrence in association with intracranial lesions. Which possibility is more plausible was examined. MATERIAL AND METHODS This multicenter, retrospective study reviewed the clinical records of children younger than four years with head trauma who had been diagnosed with any findings on head computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Of 452 cases, 239 underwent an ophthalmological examination and were included in this study. The relationships of RH with intracranial findings and the cause of injury were examined. RESULT Odds ratios for RH were significant for subdural hematoma (OR 23.41, p = 0.0004), brain edema (OR 5.46, p = 0.0095), nonaccidental (OR 11.26, p<0.0001), and self-inflicted falls (OR 6.22, p = 0.0041). CONCLUSION Although nonaccidental, brain edema and self-inflicted falls were associated with RH, subdural hematoma was most strongly associated with RH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mihoko Kato
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aichi Children’s Health and Medical Center, Aichi, Japan
| | - Masahiro Nonaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Nobuyuki Akutsu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hyogo Prefectural Kobe Children’s Hospital, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Narisawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sendai City Hospital, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Atsuko Harada
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Takatsuki General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Young-Soo Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Why admitted cases of AHT make a low quality reference standard: A survey of people accused of AHT in France. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2022; 6:100312. [PMID: 36632195 PMCID: PMC9826806 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Several influential articles that attempt to establish diagnostic methods for Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) use admitted cases as a reference standard. This study analyses a survey of people accused of AHT in France, to understand the environment and situations in which such admissions are made. Multiple reasons to question the reliability of admissions to AHT are demonstrated in the responses, including reduced sentences, the return of children to the family home, a desire to stop accusations being leveled at a partner and for legal proceedings to end. These factors must be considered in the context of proceedings that are long, expensive and stressful, leading to depression and financial hardship, and that seem to be inevitably heading towards conviction. The ineluctable conclusion is that admitted cases do not make a suitably reliable reference standard for undertaking scientific investigation, or for validating the diagnostic methods used for AHT.
Collapse
|
14
|
Christian CW, Binenbaum G. The eye in child abuse. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:2335-2344. [PMID: 35871261 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05610-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Child physical abuse may result in a range of injuries to the globe and surrounding tissues. These injuries have varying degrees of specificity for abuse, and no pattern of injury is unique to abuse. Easily overlooked eye injuries in non-ambulatory infants often portend more severe abuse and require careful evaluation for occult injury when they are unexplained. Retinal hemorrhages are most often a sign of significant trauma and the severity of the hemorrhages generally parallels the severity of neurological trauma. Ophthalmologists contribute important data that more easily distinguish medical disease from trauma, but caution is needed in differentiating accidental from inflicted trauma. This distinction requires careful consideration of the complete clinical data and occasionally on additional law enforcement or child welfare investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cindy W Christian
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine at The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
| | - Gil Binenbaum
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Perelman School of Medicine at The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Vinchon M, Di Rocco F. The role of the pediatric neurosurgeon in abusive head injuries: a survey of members of the International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:2289-2294. [PMID: 36053309 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05650-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Pediatric neurosurgeons are at the forefront of the clinical management of abusive head injuries (AHI) all over the world. However, the discrepancies regarding medical practice and legal requirements in different centers have not been assessed before. MATERIAL AND METHODS We decided to perform an online survey among members of the International Society for Pediatric Neurosurgery (ISPN) regarding their activity, their usual clinical practice regarding the medical and legal management of AHI, and their involvement in judiciary proceedings, research, and prevention campaigns. RESULTS Ninety members of the ISPN participated in the survey, representing 26% of the registered members. Most responders were senior pediatric neurosurgeons practicing in a university hospital. Their responses show great homogeneity regarding surgical, intensive care, and legal management. We also noted the widespread use of invasive intracranial pressure monitoring and decompressive craniotomy. By contrast, the responses show great disparity regarding the circuit of patients. This disparity may be an obstacle to the collection of data and clinical research, as well as for the involvement of neurosurgeons in multidisciplinary evaluation. A minority of neurosurgeons were engaged in research and actions of prevention. CONCLUSION Pediatric neurosurgeons play a pivotal role in the diagnosis and medical management of AHI. Because of their proficiency in head trauma and cerebrospinal fluid disorders, it is desirable that they become more implicated in multidisciplinary meetings, medical expertise, and scientific research, as well as actions of prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Vinchon
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hospices Civil de Lyon, Hôpital Femme Mere Enfant, 59 Bvd Pinel, 69500, Bron, France.
| | - Federico Di Rocco
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Hospices Civil de Lyon, Hôpital Femme Mere Enfant, 59 Bvd Pinel, 69500, Bron, France
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abusive head injuries in infants: from founders to denialism and beyond. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:2275-2280. [PMID: 36104570 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05671-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Abusive head injuries is a major cause of severe morbidity and the main cause of mortality by head trauma in infants. MATERIAL AND METHODS Based on published data and their own clinical and medicolegal practice, the authors review briefly the historical roots and emergence of the concept of abusive head injuries (AHI), until the present scientific understanding of shaken baby syndrome (SBS) and Silverman syndrome. They then discuss the present epidemic of denialism and how this challenge to science should be seen as a stimulus to increase research and improve the accuracy of diagnosis and medical practice. RESULTS The denial of SBS is especially damaging because it undermines the possibilities of prevention and reparation for victims. The authors expand on AHI being part of a wider context of domestic violence and the prevention of child abuse being part of a broad and long-term endeavor to defend civilization values. CONCLUSIONS Prevention of AHI is a major challenge for the future. In the fields of science and prevention of child abuse, the input of pediatric neurosurgeons should not be underestimated.
Collapse
|
17
|
Abusive head trauma in Japan: editorial comment. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:2395-2396. [PMID: 36260107 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05708-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
18
|
Even KM, Hymel KP, Armijo-Garcia V, Musick M, Weeks K, Haney SB, Marinello M, Herman BE, Frazier TN, Carroll CL, Liang M, Wang M. The association of subcortical brain injury and abusive head trauma. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 134:105917. [PMID: 36308893 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abusive head trauma (AHT) remains a major pediatric problem with diagnostic challenges. A small pilot study previously associated subcortical brain injury with AHT. OBJECTIVES To investigate the association of subcortical injury on neuroimaging with the diagnosis of AHT. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Children <3 years with acute TBI admitted to 18 PICUs between 2011 and 2021. METHODS Secondary analysis of existing, combined, de-identified, cross-sectional dataset. RESULTS Deepest location of visible injury was characterized as scalp/skull/epidural (n = 170), subarachnoid/subdural (n = 386), cortical brain (n = 170), or subcortical brain (n = 247) (total n = 973). Subcortical injury was significantly associated with AHT using both physicians' diagnostic impression (OR: 8.41 [95 % CI: 5.82-12.44]) and a priori definitional criteria (OR: 5.99 [95 % CI: 4.31-8.43]). Caregiver reports consistent with the child's gross motor skills and historically consistent with repetition decreased as deepest location of injury increased, p < 0.001. Patients with subcortical injuries were significantly more likely to have traumatic extracranial injuries such as rib fractures (OR 3.36, 95 % CI 2.30-4.92) or retinal hemorrhages (OR 5.97, 95 % CI 4.35-8.24), respiratory compromise (OR 12.12, 95 % CI 8.49-17.62), circulatory compromise (OR 6.71, 95 % CI 4.87-9.29), seizures (OR 3.18, 95 % CI 2.35-4.29), and acute encephalopathy (OR 12.44, 95 % CI 8.16-19.68). CONCLUSIONS Subcortical injury is associated with a diagnosis of AHT, historical inaccuracies concerning for abuse, traumatic extracranial injuries, and increased severity of illness including respiratory and circulatory compromise, seizures, and prolonged loss of consciousness. Presence of subcortical injury should be considered as one component of the complex AHT diagnostic process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn M Even
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, 600 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| | - Kent P Hymel
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, 600 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Veronica Armijo-Garcia
- University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Matthew Musick
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Kerri Weeks
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas School of Medicine, 3243 East Murdoch, Wichita, KS 67208, USA
| | - Suzanne B Haney
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, 8200 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68114, USA.
| | - Mark Marinello
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU, 1250 East Marshall Street, Richmond, VA 23219, USA.
| | - Bruce E Herman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Primary Children's Hospital, 100 North Mario Capecchie Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA.
| | - Terra N Frazier
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
| | - Christopher L Carroll
- Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA.
| | - Menglu Liang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, 700 HMC Crescent Road, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, 700 HMC Crescent Road, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Carpenter SL, Abshire TC, Killough E, Anderst JD. Evaluating for Suspected Child Abuse: Conditions That Predispose to Bleeding. Pediatrics 2022; 150:189508. [PMID: 36120799 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-059277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Child abuse might be suspected when children present with cutaneous bruising, intracranial hemorrhage, or other manifestations of bleeding. In these cases, it is necessary to consider medical conditions that predispose to easy bleeding or bruising. When evaluating for the possibility of bleeding disorders and other conditions that predispose to hemorrhage, it is important for pediatricians to consider the child's presenting history, medical history, and physical examination findings before initiating a laboratory investigation. Many medical conditions can predispose to easy bleeding. Before ordering laboratory tests for a disease, it is useful to understand the biochemical basis and clinical presentation of the disorder, condition prevalence, and test characteristics. This technical report reviews the major medical conditions that predispose to bruising or bleeding and should be considered when evaluating for abusive injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L Carpenter
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Children's Mercy Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Thomas C Abshire
- Senior Investigator Emeritus, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Medicine, and the CTSI of Southeast Wisconsin, Emeritus, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Emily Killough
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Children's Mercy Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - James D Anderst
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Children's Mercy Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Greeley C. Methodologic Concerns Regarding Study Design and Analysis; caution is warranted. Acta Paediatr 2022. [PMID: 35841371 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Greeley
- Baylor College of Medicine Department of Pediatrics, 77030-3410, Houston, Texas, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hymel KP, Boos SC, Armijo-Garcia V, Musick M, Weeks K, Haney SB, Marinello M, Herman BE, Frazier TN, Carroll CL, Even K, Wang M. An analysis of physicians' diagnostic reasoning regarding pediatric abusive head trauma. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 129:105666. [PMID: 35567958 PMCID: PMC10724711 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physician diagnoses of abusive head trauma (AHT) have been criticized for circular reasoning and over-reliance on a "triad" of findings. Absent a gold standard, analyses that apply restrictive reference standards for AHT and non-AHT could serve to confirm or refute these criticisms. OBJECTIVES To compare clinical presentations and injuries in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. witnessed non-AHT, and with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. physician diagnosed AHT not witnessed/admitted. To measure the triad's AHT test performance in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. witnessed non-AHT. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Acutely head injured patients <3 years hospitalized for intensive care across 18 sites between 2010 and 2021. METHODS Secondary analyses of existing, combined, cross-sectional datasets. Probability values and odds ratios were used to identify and characterize differences. Test performance measures included sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. RESULTS Compared to patients with witnessed non-AHT (n = 100), patients with witnessed/admitted AHT (n = 58) presented more frequently with respiratory compromise (OR 2.94, 95% CI: 1.50-5.75); prolonged encephalopathy (OR 5.23, 95% CI: 2.51-10.89); torso, ear, or neck bruising (OR 11.87, 95% CI: 4.48-31.48); bilateral subdural hemorrhages (OR 8.21, 95% CI: 3.94-17.13); diffuse brain hypoxia, ischemia, or swelling (OR 6.51, 95% CI: 3.06-13.02); and dense, extensive retinal hemorrhages (OR 7.59, 95% CI: 2.85-20.25). All differences were statistically significant (p ≤ .001). No significant differences were observed in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT (n = 58) vs. patients diagnosed with AHT not witnessed/admitted (n = 438). The triad demonstrated AHT specificity and positive predictive value ≥0.96. CONCLUSIONS The observed differences in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. witnessed non-AHT substantiate prior reports. The complete absence of differences in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. physician diagnosed AHT not witnessed/admitted supports an impression that physicians apply diagnostic reasoning informed by knowledge of previously reported injury patterns. Concern for abuse is justified in patients who present with "the triad."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kent P Hymel
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, 600 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| | - Stephen C Boos
- Department of Pediatrics, UMass Chan Medical School-Baystate Health, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA 01199, USA.
| | - Veronica Armijo-Garcia
- University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Matthew Musick
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Kerri Weeks
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas School of Medicine, 3243 East Murdoch, Wichita, KS 67208, USA
| | - Suzanne B Haney
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, 8200 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68114, USA.
| | - Mark Marinello
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU, 1250 East Marshall Street, Richmond, VA 23219, USA.
| | - Bruce E Herman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Primary Children's Hospital, 100 North Mario Capecchie Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA.
| | - Terra N Frazier
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
| | - Christopher L Carroll
- Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA.
| | - Katelyn Even
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, 600 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, 700 HMC Crescent Road, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Vaz A. Is orbital susceptibility-weighted imaging superior to standard brain gradient echo sequences for detecting retinal hemorrhages? Pediatr Radiol 2022; 52:1013-1014. [PMID: 34665304 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-021-05216-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- André Vaz
- Centro de Imagem (CEIMA), Hospital Pequeno Príncipe, Rua Desembargador Motta, 1070, Curibata, 80250-060, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Interesting data about confessions and AHT, but suboptimal analysis. Commentary to Vinchon et al. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:869-870. [PMID: 35284946 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05496-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
24
|
Nonaka M, Asai A. Abusive Head Trauma in Infants and Children in Japan. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2022; 65:380-384. [PMID: 35483020 PMCID: PMC9082133 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2021.0285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Subdural hematoma in infants can be caused by abuse, and is thought to be more likely if subdural hematoma is associated with retinal hemorrhage and cerebral edema. In Japan, few doctors disagree that cases of subdural hematoma with retinal hemorrhage and cerebral edema with multiple findings on the body are more likely to have been caused by abuse rather than by household accident. On the other hand, in cases where there are no other significant physical findings, only subdural hematoma and retinal hemorrhage, there is a difference of opinion as to whether the injury was caused by an accident or abuse. The reason for this is that neurosurgeons in Japan promoted the concept that infants can develop subdural hematomas and retinal hemorrages due to minor trauma at home before the concept of abusive head trauma became known. In addition, the age distribution of subdural hematomas in Japan differs from that in other countries, with peaks at around 8 months, and the reason for this remains unclear. Therefore, the etiology of infant subdural hematoma in Japan needs to be investigated in greater detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Nonaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| | - Akio Asai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wester K, Stridbeck U, Syse A, Wikström J. Re-evaluation of medical findings in alleged shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma in Norwegian courts fails to support abuse diagnoses. Acta Paediatr 2022; 111:779-792. [PMID: 34041784 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM The criteria for diagnosing abusive head trauma (AHT) are not well defined and this condition might be diagnosed on failing premises. Our aim was to review criminal AHT cases in Norwegian courts by scrutinising the underlying medical documentation. METHODS Cases were identified in the data registry for Norwegian courts from 2004 to 2015. Documentation was obtained from relevant health institutions. The medical co-authors first made independent evaluations of the documentation for each child, followed by a consensus evaluation. RESULTS A total of 17 children (11 boys) were identified, all diagnosed as AHT by court appointed experts, 15 were infants (mean age 2.6 months). A high proportion (41.2%) was born to immigrant parents and 31.3% were premature. The medical findings could be explained by alternative diagnoses in 16 of the 17 children; 8 boys (7 infants - mean age 2.9 months) had clinical and radiological characteristics compatible with external hydrocephalus complicated by chronic subdural haematoma. Six children (five infants with mean age 2.1 months) had a female preponderance and findings compatible with hypoxic ischaemic insults. CONCLUSION The medical condition in most children had not necessarily been caused by shaking or direct impact, as was originally concluded by the court experts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Knut Wester
- Department of Clinical Medicine K1 University of Bergen Bergen Norway
| | - Ulf Stridbeck
- Department of Public and International Law Faculty of Law University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| | - Aslak Syse
- Department of Public and International Law Faculty of Law University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| | - Johan Wikström
- Department of Radiology Uppsala University Uppsala Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Scheller J, Wester K. Is external hydrocephalus a possible differential diagnosis when child abuse is suspected? Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2022; 164:1161-1172. [PMID: 33710381 PMCID: PMC8967805 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-021-04786-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Criteria for diagnosing abusive head trauma (AHT) or "shaken baby syndrome" are not well defined; consequently, these conditions might be diagnosed on failing premises. METHODS The authors have collected a total of 28 infants, from the US (20) and Norway (8), suspected of having been violently shaken, and their caregivers had been suspected, investigated, prosecuted or convicted of having performed this action. Among 26 symptomatic infants, there were 18 boys (69%) and 8 girls (31%)-mean age 5.1 month, without age difference between genders. RESULTS Twenty-one of 26 symptomatic children (81%) had a head circumference at or above the 90 percentile, and 18 had a head circumference at or above the 97 percentile. After macrocephaly, seizure was the most frequent initial symptom in 13 (50%) of the symptomatic infants. Seventeen (65%) of the symptomatic infants had bilateral retinal haemorrhages, and two had unilateral retinal haemorrhages. All infants had neuroimaging compatible with chronic subdural haematomas/hygromas as well as radiological characteristics compatible with benign external hydrocephalus (BEH). CONCLUSIONS BEH with subdural haematomas/hygromas in infants may sometimes be misdiagnosed as abusive head trauma. Based on the authors' experience and findings of the study, the following measures are suggested to avoid this diagnostic pitfall: medical experts in infant abuse cases should be trained in recognising clinical and radiological BEH features, clinicians with neuro-paediatric experience should always be included in the expert teams and reliable information about the head circumference development from birth should always be available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Scheller
- Neurologist in Private Practice, 600 Reisterstown Rd #301, Baltimore, MD, 21208, USA
| | - Knut Wester
- Department of Clinical Medicine K1, University of Bergen, N 5021, Bergen, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Moskwa R, Todeschi J, Wiedemann-Fode A, Stella I, Joud A, Klein O. Ophthalmological lesions in shaken baby syndrome: a retrospective analysis of 133 consecutive cases (1992-2018). Neurochirurgie 2022; 68:367-372. [PMID: 35150727 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is a non-accidental head trauma in which shaking causes cranio-cerebral lesions. Shaking can lead to ophthalmologic lesions such as retinal hemorrhage (RH). The aim of the present study was to compare our long-term results in to the literature data. PATIENTS AND METHODS This study was a single-center retrospective descriptive analysis of 133 consecutive SBS cases (1992 - 2018). Only seniors in ophthalmology were authorized to perform these examinations. We studied type of lesion (retinal, intra-vitreal, papilledema), location (uni- or bi-lateral), and correlation with gender and age. Infants with a traumatic context without suspicion of child abuse were excluded. RESULTS Mean age at diagnosis was 131 days (range, 14 days - 10 months). Boys accounted for 72.2% of the population. The prevalence of ophthalmologic lesions was 70.3%. 94.4% were RH; intra-vitreous hemorrhage (6.7%) and papilledema (11.1%) were less frequent. Lesions were bilateral in 81.1% of cases. Retinal lesions were classified in terms of location. Macular involvement was diagnosed in 8.2% of cases. 18.8% of retinal lesions could not be classified because of lack of precision in the ophthalmology report. The prevalence of ophthalmic lesions was higher for children aged over 6 months: 80%. CONCLUSION This series highlighted a high rate of ophthalmic lesions in SBS, with a high rate of bilateral involvement. RH was the most frequent lesion. RH in a context of subdural hematoma is a strong argument in favor of SBS. The forensic implications are that rigorous ophthalmologic examination by a senior practitioner is mandatory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rémy Moskwa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mercy Regional Hospital, Ars-Laquenexy, France; Service of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Nancy University Hospital, Université de Lorraine, France
| | - Julien Todeschi
- Service of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Nancy University Hospital, Université de Lorraine, France
| | - Arnaud Wiedemann-Fode
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children's Hospital, Nancy University Hospital, INSERM Unit 1256 N-GERE, Université de Lorraine, France
| | - Irene Stella
- Service of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Nancy University Hospital, Université de Lorraine, France
| | - Anthony Joud
- Service of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Nancy University Hospital, Université de Lorraine, France
| | - Olivier Klein
- Service of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Nancy University Hospital, Université de Lorraine, France.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Vinchon M, Noulé N, Karnoub MA. The legal challenges to the diagnosis of shaken baby syndrome or how to counter 12 common fake news. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:133-145. [PMID: 34564748 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05357-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The shaken baby syndrome (SBS) is a common cause of severe traumatic lesions in infants. Although well established for almost five decades, SBS and its diagnosis are becoming more and more aggressively challenged in courts. These challenges feed on the scientific debate and controversies regarding the pathophysiology and the differential diagnoses, scientific uncertainty being readily exploited by specialized barristers. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the present review, we analyze the most common challenges to the concept of SBS and its diagnosis, as well as the scientific evidence available to counter these challenges, the differential diagnoses, and how SBS can be diagnosed with confidence. RESULTS We found that the pathophysiology of SBS is well documented, with stereotyped descriptions by perpetrators, in good correlation with experimental studies and computer models. SBS is a well-defined clinico-pathological entity with a characteristic constellation of lesions; with a rigorous evaluation protocol, its diagnosis can be made rapidly and with excellent accuracy beyond a reasonable doubt. CONCLUSION It is important that medical experts master an extensive knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of the lesions of SBS, in particular infantile subdural hematomas, as well as other CSF-related conditions. This emphasizes the role that pediatric neurosurgeons should play in the clinical and medicolegal management of these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Vinchon
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Service de Neurochirurgie Pédiatrique, CHRU de Lille, Lille University Hospital, 59 037, Lille, France.
| | - Nathalie Noulé
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Service de Neurochirurgie Pédiatrique, CHRU de Lille, Lille University Hospital, 59 037, Lille, France
| | - Melodie-Anne Karnoub
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Service de Neurochirurgie Pédiatrique, CHRU de Lille, Lille University Hospital, 59 037, Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Boos SC, Wang M, Karst WA, Hymel KP. Traumatic Head Injury and the Diagnosis of Abuse: A Cluster Analysis. Pediatrics 2022; 149:183816. [PMID: 34890450 PMCID: PMC9645685 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-051742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Data guiding abusive head trauma (AHT) diagnosis rest on case-control studies that have been criticized for circularity. We wished to sort children with neurologic injury using mathematical algorithms, without reference to physicians' diagnoses or predetermined diagnostic criteria, and to compare the results to existing AHT data, physicians' diagnoses, and a proposed triad of findings. METHODS Unsupervised cluster analysis of an existing data set regarding 500 young patients with acute head injury hospitalized for intensive care. Three cluster algorithms were used to sort (partition) patients into subpopulations (clusters) on the basis of 32 reliable (κ > 0.6) clinical and radiologic variables. P values and odds ratios (ORs) identified variables most predictive of partitioning. RESULTS The full cohort partitioned into 2 clusters. Variables substantially (P < .001 and OR > 10 in all 3 cluster algorithms) more prevalent in cluster 1 were imaging indications of brain hypoxemia, ischemia, and/or swelling; acute encephalopathy, particularly when lasting >24 hours; respiratory compromise; subdural hemorrhage or fluid collection; and ophthalmologist-confirmed retinoschisis. Variables substantially (P < .001 and OR < 0.10 in any cluster algorithm) more prevalent in cluster 2 were linear parietal skull fracture and epidural hematoma. Postpartitioning analysis revealed that cluster 1 had a high prevalence of physician-diagnosed abuse. CONCLUSIONS Three cluster algorithms partitioned the population into 2 clusters without reference to predetermined diagnostic criteria or clinical opinion about the nature of AHT. Clinical difference between clusters replicated differences previously described in comparisons of AHT with non-AHT. Algorithmic partition was predictive of physician diagnosis and of the triad of findings heavily discussed in AHT literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C. Boos
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School—Baystate, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, Massachusetts,Address correspondence to Stephen C. Boos, MD, Baystate Medical Center, Family Advocacy Center, 300 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01199. E-mail:
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Wouter A. Karst
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Kent P. Hymel
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University and Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of death from trauma in children less than 2 years of age. A delay in presentation for care has been reported as a risk factor for abuse; however, there has been limited research on this topic. We compare children diagnosed with AHT to children diagnosed with accidental head trauma to determine if there is a delay in presentation. METHODS We retrospectively studied children less than 6 years old who had acute head injury and were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit at a pediatric hospital from 2013 to 2017. Cases were reviewed to determine the duration from symptom onset to presentation to care and the nature of the head injury (abusive vs accidental). RESULTS A total of 59 children met inclusion criteria. Patients who had AHT were significantly more likely to present to care more than 30 minutes after symptom onset (P = 0.0015). Children who had AHT were more likely to be younger (median, 4 vs 31 months; P < 0.0001) and receive Medicaid (P < 0.0001) than those who had accidental head trauma. Patients who had AHT were more likely to have a longer length of stay (median, 11 vs 3 days; P < 0.0001) and were less likely to be discharged home than patients who had accidental head trauma (38% vs 84%; P = 0.0005). CONCLUSIONS Children who had AHT were more likely to have a delayed presentation for care as compared with children whose head trauma was accidental. A delay in care should prompt clinicians to strongly consider a workup for abusive injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Suzanne B Haney
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Vinchon M, Karnoub MA, Noulé N, Lampin ME. Confessed versus denied inflicted head injuries in infants: similarities and differences. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:147-152. [PMID: 34608530 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-021-05381-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Abusive head injuries (AHI), and in particular shaken baby syndrome (SBS), are common causes of mortality and morbidity in infants. Although SBS is a well-established entity, based on clinical experience and experimental data, and confirmed by the perpetrators' confessions, a growing number of publications challenge the diagnostic criteria, and even the validity of the perpetrators' confession. We decided to study AHI in infants and compare cases with and without confession. MATERIAL AND METHODS We collected prospectively all cases of infantile traumatic head injuries hospitalized in our institution between 2001 and 2021. From this database, we selected victims of AHI, comparing cases for which the perpetrator confessed during police inquiry ("confession" group) versus cases without confession ("denial" group). RESULTS We studied 350 cases of AHI in infants; 137 of these (39.1%) were confessed. We found no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the child's previous history, as well as the personality and previous history of the caretakers. However, the "confession" group showed significantly more severe clinical presentation, cerebral lesions, retinal hemorrhages, and a more pejorative outcome. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the diagnosis of AHI was confirmed by the confession in a large number of cases, indicating that the diagnostic criteria of AHI are robust. We also found that denial, although possibly sincere, was likely ill-founded, and that the perpetrators' decision to confess or deny was markedly influenced by the severity of the inflicted lesions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Vinchon
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
George CL, Harper NS. Computer Algorithms Support Physician Decisions in Traumatic Head Injury. Pediatrics 2022; 149:183817. [PMID: 34890452 PMCID: PMC9645695 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-054009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline L.S. George
- Address correspondence to Caroline L.S. George, MD, Otto Bremer Trust Center for Safe and Healthy Children, University of Minnesota, 2512 S 7th St, Suite R107, Minneapolis, MN 55454. E-mail:
| | - Nancy S. Harper
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital, Minneapolis
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
Clinicians often miss making the diagnosis of abusive head injury in infants and toddlers who present with mild, non-specific symptoms such as vomiting, fussiness, irritability, trouble sleeping and eating, and seizure. If abusive head injury is missed, the child is likely to go on to experience more severe injury. An extensive review of the medical literature was done to summarize what is known about missed abusive head injury and about how these injuries can be recognized and appropriately evaluated. The following issues will be addressed: the definition of mild head injury, problems encountered when clinicians evaluated mildly ill young children with non-specific symptoms, the risk of missing the diagnosis of mild abusive head trauma, the risks involved in subjecting infants and young children to radiation and/or sedation required for neuroimaging studies, imaging options for suspected neurotrauma in children, clinical prediction rules for evaluating mild head injury in children, laboratory tests than can be helpful in diagnosing mild abusive head injury, history and physical examination when diagnosing or ruling out mild abusive head injury, social and family factors that could be associated with abusive injuries, and interventions that could improve our recognition of mild abusive head injuries. Relevant literature is described and evaluated. The conclusion is that abusive head trauma remains a difficult diagnosis to identify in mildly symptomatic young children.
Collapse
|
34
|
Debunking Fringe Beliefs in Child Abuse Imaging: AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2021; 217:529-540. [PMID: 33908266 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.21.25655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Child abuse is a global public health concern. Injuries from physical abuse may be clinically occult and not appreciable on physical examination. Imaging is therefore critical in identifying and documenting such injuries. The radiologic approach for a child who has potentially been abused has received considerable attention and recommendations according to decades of experience and rigorous scientific study. Nonetheless, fringe beliefs describing alternative explanations for child abuse-related injuries have emerged and received mainstream attention. Subsequently, imaging findings identified in abused children have been attributed to poorly supported underlying medical conditions, clouding the evidence basis for radiologic findings indicative of nonaccidental trauma. Fringe beliefs that attribute findings seen in child abuse to alternate pathologies such as genetic disorders, birth trauma, metabolic imbalances, vitamin D deficiency, and short-distance falls typically have limited evidence basis and lack professional society support. Careful review of the scientific evidence and professional society consensus statements is important in differentiating findings attributable to child abuse from fringe beliefs used to discount the possibility that a child's constellation of injuries is consistent with abuse. This review refutes fringe beliefs used to provide alternative explanations in cases of suspected child abuse and reinforces the key literature and scientific consensus regarding child abuse imaging.
Collapse
|
35
|
Colombari M, Troakes C, Turrina S, Tagliaro F, De Leo D, Al-Sarraj S. Spinal cord injury as an indicator of abuse in forensic assessment of abusive head trauma (AHT). Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:1481-1498. [PMID: 33619608 PMCID: PMC8205921 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02526-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) in children is notoriously one of the most challenging diagnoses for the forensic pathologist. The pathological "triad", a combination of intracranial subdural haematoma, cerebral oedema with hypoxic-ischaemic changes and retinal haemorrhages, is frequently argued to be insufficient to support a corroborated verdict of abuse. Data from all available English-language scientific literature involving radiological and neuropathological spinal cord examination is reviewed here in order to assess the contribution of spinal cord changes in differentiating abusive from accidental head trauma. In agreement with the statistically proven association between spinal subdural haemorrhage (SDH) and abuse (Choudhary et al. in Radiology 262:216-223, 2012), spinal blood collection proved to be the most indicative finding related to abusive aetiology. The incidence of spinal blood collection is as much as 44-48% when all the spinal cord levels are analysed as opposed to just 0-18% when the assessment is performed at cervical level only, in agreement with the evidence of the most frequent spinal SDH location at thoracolumbar rather than cervical level. In this review, the source of spinal cord blood collection and how the age of the child relates to the position of spinal cord lesions is also discussed. We concluded that the ante mortem MRI examination and post mortem examination of whole-length spinal cord is of fundamental interest for the assessment of abuse in the forensic setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Colombari
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Forensic Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Claire Troakes
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Stefania Turrina
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Forensic Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Franco Tagliaro
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Forensic Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Domenico De Leo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Forensic Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Safa Al-Sarraj
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Neuropathology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Garcia-Pires F, Jayappa S, Desai S, Ramakrishnaiah RH, Choudhary AK. Spinal subdural hemorrhage in abusive head trauma: a pictorial review. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:980-990. [PMID: 33999240 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04931-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence links abusive head trauma (AHT) to patterns of direct and indirect spinal injuries, such as spinal subdural hemorrhage (SDH). Identification of evidence of spinal injury such as spinal SDH plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and subsequent management of the index child with AHT and his or her siblings. In a value-based practice of medicine, it can be argued that adding spine imaging to identify spinal SDH in the workup of AHT adds value to both the short- and long-term management of the patient. This pictorial review describes the normal appearance of spinal SDH and challenges of identifying spinal SDH, and it explores the mechanism of spinal SDH development in AHT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flavio Garcia-Pires
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
| | - Sateesh Jayappa
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Shivang Desai
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Raghu H Ramakrishnaiah
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Arabinda K Choudhary
- Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Eismann EA, Shapiro RA, Thackeray J, Makoroff K, Bressler CJ, Kim GJ, Vavul-Roediger L, McPherson P, Izsak E, Spencer SP. Providers' Ability to Identify Sentinel Injuries Concerning for Physical Abuse in Infants. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e230-e235. [PMID: 30095596 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to assess the ability of pediatric health care providers and social workers to recognize sentinel injuries in infants under 6 months of age and to determine what factors influence their decision to evaluate for physical abuse. METHODS A statewide collaborative focused on sentinel injuries administered a survey to pediatric health care providers and social workers in the emergency department, urgent care, and primary care. The survey contained 8 case scenarios of infants under 6 months of age with an injury, and respondents were asked if they would consider the injury to be a sentinel injury requiring a physical abuse evaluation. Respondents were then presented with several factors and asked how much each influences the decision to perform a physical abuse evaluation. RESULTS A total of 565 providers completed the survey. Providers had moderate interrater reliability on their classification of the cases as sentinel injuries or not (κ = 0.57). Nearly all respondents (97%) recognized genital bruising as a sentinel injury, whereas 77% of respondents recognized intraoral injuries. Agreement was highest among social workers (κ = 0.76) and physicians with categorical pediatrics training and pediatric emergency medicine fellowship (κ = 0.63) and lowest among nurse practitioners (κ = 0.48) and residents (κ = 0.51). Concern over missing the diagnosis of abuse had the greatest influence on the decision to perform a physical abuse evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Sentinel injuries are not uniformly recognized as potential signs of child abuse requiring further evaluation by pediatric health care providers. Additional evidence and education are needed regarding sentinel injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Grace J Kim
- University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital; Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Haq I, Jayappa S, Desai SK, Ramakrishnaiah R, Choudhary AK. Spinal ligamentous injury in abusive head trauma: a pictorial review. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:971-979. [PMID: 33999239 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04922-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence of spine injury in abusive head trauma (AHT). Historically, spine injury was considered rare in AHT because of a lack of attributable clinical symptoms or signs and a lack of advanced imaging. Increased use of MRI in AHT has been instrumental in helping identify evidence of ligamentous injuries of the spine. These findings can be difficult to identify on autopsy because of the size and location of the ligaments. Because spinal injury in AHT mostly involves ligamentous and soft tissues and only rarely involves bony fractures, more than 90% of the injury findings are missed on CT or radiography of the spine. Investigation of these findings and the injury patterns should lead to a better understanding of the mechanism of spinal injury. In this pictorial review, we describe the various manifestations of spinal ligamentous injury in AHT, as seen on MRI, in children younger than 48 months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iqbal Haq
- Department of Radiology,University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS),, 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
| | - Sateesh Jayappa
- Department of Radiology,University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS),, 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Shivang K Desai
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Raghu Ramakrishnaiah
- Department of Radiology,University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS),, 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Arabinda K Choudhary
- Department of Radiology,University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS),, 4301 W. Markham St., Slot 556, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Neuroimaging of retinal hemorrhage utilizing adjunct orbital susceptibility-weighted imaging. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:991-996. [PMID: 33710408 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04897-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Retinal hemorrhages are an integral part of the evaluation of abusive head trauma (AHT). Timely detection of retinal hemorrhage not only facilitates the diagnosis of AHT, but has the potential to prevent further abuse to the child and the siblings and to identify the abuser. The gold standard for diagnosing retinal hemorrhage is a dilated fundoscopy exam, which requires pharmacological dilation. As such, there is a small percentage of patients for whom the dilated fundoscopy exam might be delayed. Evolving literature suggests that MRI, specifically susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), of the orbits might provide an alternative diagnostic tool for noninvasively detecting retinal hemorrhages, particularly when there is a delay in administering the dilated fundoscopy exam. In this paper we review the utility of SWI for detecting retinal hemorrhages in abusive head trauma, including discussion of diagnostic limitations and future research.
Collapse
|
40
|
Bennett CE, Christian CW. Clinical evaluation and management of children with suspected physical abuse. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:853-860. [PMID: 33999229 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04864-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Evaluating and managing children with suspected physical abuse is challenging. Few single injuries are pathognomonic for abuse and, as a result, child abuse is easily missed. As such, a healthy bit of skepticism is needed to recognize and protect abused children. The medical history and clinical presentation should guide evaluation. Medical providers must consider the differential diagnosis, epidemiology of injuries, and child development to inform the assessment. In this review, we address evidence-based recommendations to inform child physical abuse evaluations. We also discuss the role of medical providers in communicating with families, mandated reporting and interpreting medical information for investigative agencies and other non-medical colleagues entrusted with protecting children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colleen E Bennett
- Safe Place:The Center for Child Protection and Health, Division of General Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- National Clinician Scholars Program, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Cindy W Christian
- Safe Place:The Center for Child Protection and Health, Division of General Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Dias MS, Thamburaj K. Neuroradiologic timing of intracranial hemorrhage in abusive head trauma. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:911-917. [PMID: 33999236 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04824-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Determining the timing of intracranial injuries in general, and abusive head trauma (AHT) in particular, is important to the care of children with traumatic brain injury. Additionally, identifying the time of the injury provides important information as to who might have, and who did not, inflict the trauma. Understanding the appearance and evolution of intracranial findings on neuroimaging has been an important factor in assessing the time of the injury. However, a number of studies in the last two decades have both suggested greater uncertainty about the reliability of this process and advanced our knowledge in this area. In this review, the authors consider the biophysical factors that contribute to the appearance and evolution of intracranial hemorrhage and, in particular, subdural hemorrhage (SDH). The traditional view of SDH is predicated largely on prior studies of intracerebral hemorrhage, although a number of variables make this comparison untenable. Moreover, more recent studies have suggested a number of factors that could alter the density (CT) or signal intensity (MRI) and produce mixed density/intensity SDH. These factors need to be considered in interpreting neuroimaging studies. A number of these recent studies evaluating serial neuroimaging in children with AHT have modified our understanding of intracranial hemorrhage and its evolution in this context. Taken together, the studies to date, having important limitations, provide only broad ranges over which to time injuries. The authors conclude that neuroimaging studies at this time are not likely, in isolation, to be able to accurately pinpoint a specific time of injury; rather, neuroimaging can only provide a range of possible times and should instead be used as a means to supplement or corroborate timing based on clinical presentation and other imaging findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Dias
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State Health College of Medicine, 30 Hope Drive, Suite 2750, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State Health College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Delteil C, Tuchtan L, Scavarda D, Piercecchi-Marti MD, Bosdure E, Borrione C. Judicial handling of cases of non-accidental head trauma in infants: Review and analysis of expert assessments. Neurochirurgie 2021; 67:564-570. [PMID: 33915148 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Good practice guidelines help clinicians to establish a suspected diagnosis of non-accidental head injury (NAHI) and help forensic experts to establish a level of certainty for the diagnosis. The objective of this study was to assess how the French Health Authority (HAS) guidelines contribute to the process of producing an expert assessment, on causation and certainty in cases of suspected NAHI. METHOD A retrospective study was conducted of the expert assessments that were conducted by a paediatric surgeon and forensic expert attached to our local court between 2002 and 2018, with the aim of determining the causal mechanism of the lesions and express a degree of certainty regarding the diagnosis. RESULTS In our study, we found that, despite the HAS guidelines, a number of documents deemed essential for the forensic expert were sometimes missing, and that, by applying these guidelines, the decisions reached in some expert assessments could been reclassified and certain factors formerly described as risk factors for injury could be excluded. A precise dating of the traumatic event was proposed in half of cases. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the vital role of the HAS guidelines, not only for patient management but also to ensure high-quality expert assessments. Unfortunately, guidelines were not yet being properly adhered to by medical teams.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Delteil
- Forensic Department, AP-HM, La Timone, 264, rue St-Pierre, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France; Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, EFS, ADES, Marseille, France.
| | - L Tuchtan
- Forensic Department, AP-HM, La Timone, 264, rue St-Pierre, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France; Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, EFS, ADES, Marseille, France
| | - D Scavarda
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, CHU Timone Enfants, 264, rue Saint-Pierre, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| | - M-D Piercecchi-Marti
- Forensic Department, AP-HM, La Timone, 264, rue St-Pierre, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France; Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, EFS, ADES, Marseille, France
| | - E Bosdure
- Paediatric Department, CHU Timone Enfants, 264 rue Saint Pierre, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| | - C Borrione
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, CHU Timone Enfants, 264 rue Saint Pierre, 13385 Marseille cedex 05, France
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Maiese A, Iannaccone F, Scatena A, Del Fante Z, Oliva A, Frati P, Fineschi V. Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11040734. [PMID: 33924220 PMCID: PMC8074611 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11040734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) represents a commonly misdiagnosed condition. In fact, there is no pathognomonic sign that allows the diagnosis in children. Therefore, it is such an important medico-legal challenge to evaluate reliable diagnostic tools. The aim of this review is to evaluate the current scientific evidence to assess what the best practice is in order to diagnose AHT. We have focused particularly on evaluating the importance of circumstantial evidence, clinical history, the use of postmortem radiological examinations (such as CT and MRI), and the performance of the autopsy. After autopsy, histological examination of the eye and brain play an important role, with attention paid to correlation with symptoms found in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (F.I.); (A.S.)
- IRCSS Neuromed Mediterranean Neurological Institute, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy;
| | - Francesca Iannaccone
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (F.I.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrea Scatena
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (F.I.); (A.S.)
| | - Zoe Del Fante
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio Oliva
- Department of Health Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00100 Rome, Italy;
| | - Paola Frati
- IRCSS Neuromed Mediterranean Neurological Institute, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy;
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- IRCSS Neuromed Mediterranean Neurological Institute, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy;
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-064-991-2722
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Porto L, Bartels MB, Zwaschka J, You SJ, Polkowski C, Luetkens J, Endler C, Kieslich M, Hattingen E. Abusive head trauma: experience improves diagnosis. Neuroradiology 2021; 63:417-430. [PMID: 33079214 PMCID: PMC7880981 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-020-02564-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The diagnosis of abusive head trauma (AHT) is complex and neuroimaging plays a crucial role. Our goal was to determine whether non-neuroradiologists with standard neuroradiology knowledge perform as well as neuroradiologists with experience in pediatric neuroimaging in interpreting MRI in cases of presumptive AHT (pAHT). METHODS Twenty children were retrospectively evaluated. Patients had been diagnosed with pAHT (6 patients), non-abusive head trauma-NAHT (5 patients), metabolic diseases (3 patients), and benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces (BESS) (6 patients). The MRI was assessed blindly, i.e., no clinical history was given to the 3 non-neuroradiologists and 3 neuroradiologists from 2 different institutions. RESULTS Blindly, neuroradiologists demonstrated higher levels of sensitivity and positive predictive value in the diagnosis of pAHT (89%) than non-neuroradiologists (50%). Neuroradiologists chose correctly pAHT as the most probable diagnosis 16 out of 18 times; in contrast, non-neuroradiologists only chose 9 out of 18 times. In our series, the foremost important misdiagnosis for pAHT was NAHT (neuroradiologists twice and non-neuroradiologists 5 times). Only victims of motor vehicle accidents were blindly misdiagnosed as pAHT. No usual household NAHT was not misdiagnosed as pAHT. Neuroradiologists correctly ruled out pAHT in all cases of metabolic diseases and BESS. CONCLUSION MRI in cases of suspected AHT should be evaluated by neuroradiologists with experience in pediatric neuroimaging. Neuroradiologists looked beyond the subdural hemorrhage (SDH) and were more precise in the assessment of pAHT and its differential diagnosis than non-neuroradiologists were. It seems that non-neuroradiologists mainly assess whether or not a pAHT is present depending on the presence or absence of SDH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Porto
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Marco Baz Bartels
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hospital of Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jonas Zwaschka
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Se-Jong You
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christoph Polkowski
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Julian Luetkens
- Institute of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Endler
- Institute of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthias Kieslich
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hospital of Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elke Hattingen
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Cartocci G, Fineschi V, Padovano M, Scopetti M, Rossi-Espagnet MC, Giannì C. Shaken Baby Syndrome: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features in Abusive Head Trauma. Brain Sci 2021; 11:179. [PMID: 33535601 PMCID: PMC7912837 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11020179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In the context of child abuse spectrum, abusive head trauma (AHT) represents the leading cause of fatal head injuries in children less than 2 years of age. Immature brain is characterized by high water content, partially myelinated neurons, and prominent subarachnoid space, thus being susceptible of devastating damage as consequence of acceleration-deceleration and rotational forces developed by violent shaking mechanism. Diagnosis of AHT is not straightforward and represents a medical, forensic, and social challenge, based on a multidisciplinary approach. Beside a detailed anamnesis, neuroimaging is essential to identify signs suggestive of AHT, often in absence of external detectable lesions. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) represents the radiation-free modality of choice to investigate the most typical findings in AHT, such as subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, and hypoxic-ischemic damage and it also allows to detect more subtle signs as parenchymal lacerations, cranio-cervical junction, and spinal injuries. This paper is intended to review the main MRI findings of AHT in the central nervous system of infants, with a specific focus on both hemorrhagic and non-hemorrhagic injuries caused by the pathological mechanisms of shaking. Furthermore, this review provides a brief overview about the most appropriate and feasible MRI protocol to help neuroradiologists identifying AHT in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Cartocci
- Emergency Radiology Unit, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Umberto I University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00198 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00198 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Martina Padovano
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00198 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Matteo Scopetti
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00198 Rome, Italy; (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Maria Camilla Rossi-Espagnet
- Neuroradiology Unit, NESMOS Department, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Neuroradiology Unit, Imaging Department, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Giannì
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00198 Rome, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Wittschieber D, Muggenthaler H, Mall G, Mentzel HJ. [Bridging vein injuries in shaken baby syndrome : Forensic-radiological meta-analysis with special focus on the tadpole sign]. Radiologe 2021; 61:71-79. [PMID: 33289862 PMCID: PMC7810648 DOI: 10.1007/s00117-020-00780-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Shaken baby syndrome is a common variant of the abusive head trauma in infants and toddlers and is still subject of intensive research. In recent years, a number of radiological studies on the diagnostic and forensic relevance of injured bridging veins were conducted using different imaging modalities. The present article will give an overview on the current state of research in this field and will discuss the forensic implications. The meta-analysis of the seven currently existing studies revealed that injuries of the bridging veins and bridging vein thromboses, respectively, frequently appear as rounded, enlarged, and/or tubular structures. The "tadpole sign" may serve as a valuable tool for the identification of these formations. Especially, T2*/SWI (susceptibility-weighted imaging) sequences allow for good detectability of these lesions and should always be generated when abusive head trauma is suspected. In conclusion, it can be recommended that the presence of radiologically detectable bridging vein injuries should give reason to search for other manifestations of physical child abuse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Wittschieber
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Deutschland.
| | - H Muggenthaler
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Deutschland
| | - G Mall
- Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Deutschland
| | - H-J Mentzel
- Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, Sektion Kinderradiologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Amagasa S, Uematsu S, Tsuji S. Occurrence of traumatic brain injury due to short falls with or without a witness by a nonrelative in children younger than 2 years. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2020; 26:696-700. [PMID: 32916651 DOI: 10.3171/2020.6.peds20314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is disagreement about the occurrence of severe traumatic brain injury, especially subdural hematoma, caused by short falls in very young children. To verify intracranial injury due to these falls and examine its characteristics, the authors compared infants and toddlers with head trauma witnessed by a nonrelative with those whose injuries were not witnessed by a nonrelative. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed clinical records of children younger than 2 years with head trauma due to a short fall who visited the emergency department of the National Center for Child Health and Development in Japan between April 2015 and March 2018. Patients were classified into two groups: falls that were witnessed by a nonrelative and falls not witnessed by a nonrelative. The authors compared the age in months, sex, mechanism of injury, fall height, prevalence rate of intracranial injury, skull fracture, type of traumatic brain injury, retinal hemorrhage, rib or long-bone fracture, and outcomes between patients whose fall was witnessed by a nonrelative and those whose fall was not witnessed by a nonrelative. RESULTS Among 1494 patients included in the present analysis, 392 patients were classified into the group of falls witnessed by a nonrelative, and 1102 patients were classified into the group of falls that were not witnessed by a nonrelative. The prevalence rates of intracranial injury, skull fracture, epidural hematoma, and subarachnoid hemorrhage were equal between the groups. The prevalence rate of subdural hematoma in the group whose falls were witnessed by a nonrelative was significantly lower than that of the other group (p = 0.027). There were no patients with subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, or neurological sequelae in the group whose fall was witnessed by a nonrelative. CONCLUSIONS Subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, and neurological sequelae due to short falls were not seen after witnessed falls in the present study.
Collapse
|
48
|
Thiblin I, Andersson J, Wester K, Wikström J, Högberg G, Högberg U. Medical findings and symptoms in infants exposed to witnessed or admitted abusive shaking: A nationwide registry study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240182. [PMID: 33048994 PMCID: PMC7553301 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many physicians regard the combination of encephalopathy, subdural haemorrhage (SDH), retinal haemorrhage (RH), rib fractures, and classical metaphyseal lesions (CML) as highly specific for abusive head trauma (AHT). However, without observed abuse or other criteria that are independent of these findings, bias risk is high. METHODS Infants subjected for examination under the suspicion of maltreatment during the period 1997-2014 were identified in the National Patient Registry, International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10 SE). The medical records were scrutinized for identification of cases of witnessed or admitted physical abuse by shaking. The main outcome measures were occurrence of SDH, RH, fractures and skin lesions. RESULTS All identified 36 infants had been shaken, and for 6, there was information indicating blunt force impact immediately after shaking. In 30 cases, there were no findings of SDH or RH, rib fractures, or CMLs. Six infants had finding(s) suggestive of physical abuse, two with possible acute intracranial pathology. One infant with combined shaking and impact trauma had hyperdense SDH, hyperdense subarachnoid haemorrhage, suspected cortical vein thrombosis, RH, and bruises. Another infant abused by shaking had solely an acute subarachnoid haemorrhage. Both had pre-existing vulnerability. The first was born preterm and had non-specific frontal subcortical changes. The other had bilateral chronic SDH/hygroma. CONCLUSIONS The present findings do not support the hypothesis that acute SDH or RH can be caused by isolated shaking of a healthy infant. However, they do suggest that abuse by shaking may cause acute intracranial haemorrhage with RH in infants with certain risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingemar Thiblin
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jacob Andersson
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Knut Wester
- Department of Clinical Medicine K1, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Johan Wikström
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Ulf Högberg
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
A verified period of normal neurologic status in a young victim of abusive head trauma. J Forensic Leg Med 2020; 74:102024. [PMID: 33012312 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2020.102024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of child physical abuse fatalities, and survivors frequently face life-long consequences. Victims of AHT are typically infants, and many are subjected to repeat AHT if not accurately identified and protected. Identifying the timing of AHT is often a medical-forensic process, and investigative personnel use the determination of timing of AHT to guide safety decisions for the child victim. If the medical-forensic timing of AHT is incorrect, a child could be inappropriately placed and/or an innocent caregiver could be subject to prosecution. Victims of AHT who suffer severe/permanent injury are felt to demonstrate symptoms immediately after the trauma, and AHT victims with milder injury are thought to generally have persistent or recurrent clinical signs shortly after the trauma. Periods of normal neurologic appearance, in which a victim of AHT is completely asymptomatic for an extended time after the trauma, are felt to be rare and have not been well characterized in the literature. This case involves a 2-month-old infant victim of AHT who presented to medical care with mild neurologic symptoms that resolved without intervention from medical personnel. While hospitalized, the infant had an asymptomatic period of approximately 38 hours prior to more severe neurologic decompensation, then later returned to neurologic baseline. This case highlights the challenges in accurately timing AHT in very young victims who return to neurologic baseline by characterizing a verifiable prolonged period of normal neurologic appearance and function after AHT.
Collapse
|
50
|
Lynøe N, Eriksson A. Is there an association between infantile colic and subdural hemorrhage? Med Hypotheses 2020; 144:110256. [PMID: 33254567 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.110256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We present the hypothesis that subdural hemorrhages during childbirth might be associated with so-called three-month colic, whereby an infant cries intensively and repeatedly during its first three months. A traditional interpretation is that this infantile crying is associated with nutrition and is accordingly "a gut issue", but this is probably not the whole explanation. It has also been suggested that infantile crying can trigger a caregiver to shake the baby to make it stop crying, thereby inflicting a subdural hemorrhage. A mechanism-based argument supporting our hypothesis would be that the bilateral film-thin subdural hemorrhage associated with a high percentage of deliveries might cause meningeal irritation and in some cases also symptoms as inconsolable crying. An epidemiological argument is that infantile crying is more frequent among first-born, male and premature babies; these categories have also an increased incidence of subdural hemorrhage. Moreover, preventive programs for managing infantile crying have had no effect on the incidence of alleged shaken baby cases. As infantile crying is currently considered unexplained, it is reasonable to explore the proposed hypothesis and strategies which refute or corroborate it. We suggest that a cohort study of premature, first born and male babies with and without infantile crying are examined with brain MRI scan soon after delivery with clinically and MRI follow up during 3-6 months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niels Lynøe
- Centre for Healthcare Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Anders Eriksson
- Dept of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation/Forensic Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|