Case study: shaken baby syndrome--one disorder with two victims

Case Analysis of Brain-Injured Admittedly Shaken Infants

The English-language medical case literature was searched for cases of apparent or alleged child abuse between the years 1969 and 2001. Three-hundred and twenty-four cases that contained detailed individual case information were analyzed yielding 54 cases in which someone was recorded as having admitted, in some fashion, to have shaken the injured baby. Individual case findings were tabulated and analyzed with respect to shaking as being the cause for the injuries reported. For all 54 admittedly-shaken-infant cases, the provided details regarding the shaking incidents and other events are reported. Data in the case reports varied widely with respect to important details. Only 11 cases of admittedly shaken babies showed no sign of cranial impact (apparently free-shaken). This small number of cases does not permit valid statistical analysis or support for many of the commonly stated aspects of the so-called shaken baby syndrome.

Recent research and views on shaking baby syndrome

Primary care physicians and psychiatrists should be aware of the incidence, causes, diagnosis, and prognosis of the conditions of Shaking Baby Syndrome (SBS). This article discusses both accidental and non-accidental head injury, and also addresses the legal aspects of SBS. Incidence, potential causes, explanations, prevention, and treatment of the condition, both for the perpetrators and the unfortunate victims, are considered. Of special importance is the fact that SBS is difficult to diagnose with absolute certainty. Hence the identification of a potential perpetrator can be difficult and injustices can occur.

Shaken baby syndrome

Shaken baby syndrome is a significant cause of infant morbidity and mortality and is widely recognized in the medical literature. Classic signs include retinal hemorrhage, subdural or subarachnoid hemorrhage, and associated fractures. Most victims are younger than 6 months old and have been affected by violent shaking with rapid angular deceleration and possible terminal impact. This article summarizes issues related to clinical presentation, diagnosis, risk factors, and interventions for healthcare professionals.