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Ina J, Dumaine AM, Flanagan C, Haase L, Moore R, Rimnac C, Gilmore A. Findings Associated With Nonaccidental Trauma in Children With Isolated Femoral Diaphyseal Fractures. J Pediatr Orthop 2024; 44:e717-e721. [PMID: 38813812 DOI: 10.1097/bpo.0000000000002740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric patients with isolated femoral diaphyseal fractures are difficult to assess for nonaccidental trauma (NAT). The purpose of this study was to determine (1) if there are any demographic features of isolated femoral diaphyseal fractures associated with suspected NAT and (2) if there are clinical signs associated with isolated femoral diaphyseal fractures associated with suspected NAT. METHODS All patients with femoral diaphyseal fractures from January 2010 to June 2018 were reviewed. We included patients younger than 4 years old with isolated femoral diaphyseal fractures. We excluded patients 4 years old and older, polytraumas, motor vehicle collisions, and patients with altered bone biology. Diagnosis of suspected NAT was determined by review of a documented social work assessment. We recorded fracture characteristics including location along femur as well as fracture pattern and presence of associated findings on NAT workup including the presence of retinal hemorrhage, subdural hematoma, evidence of prior fracture, or cutaneous lesions. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of these associated findings were calculated. RESULTS Totally, 144 patients met the inclusion criteria. Social work was consulted on 50 patients (35%). Suspected NAT was diagnosed in 27 patients (19%). The average age of patients with suspected NAT was 0.82 and 2.25 years in patients without NAT ( P <0.01). The rate and type of skin lesions present on exam were not different between the 2 groups. Patients with suspected NAT had no findings of retinal hemorrhage or subdural hematoma, but 5 of 27 patients (19%) had evidence of prior fracture on skeletal survey. The sensitivities of retinal hemorrhage, subdural, and skeletal survey were 0%, 0%, and 19% and the specificities of all were 100%. The NPVs were 39%, 27%, and 63%, respectively. The PPV of skeletal survey was 100%. Since there were no patients in this study with positive findings of retinal hemorrhage or subdural hematoma, the PPV for these could not be assessed. CONCLUSIONS In the current study, signs of NAT such as skin lesions, retinal hemorrhage, subdural hematoma, and evidence of prior fracture on skeletal survey may not be helpful to diagnosis suspected NAT in patients with an isolated femoral diaphyseal fracture. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III-diagnostic study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Ina
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
| | - Anne M Dumaine
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
| | - Christopher Flanagan
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
| | - Lucas Haase
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
| | - Rebecca Moore
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Clare Rimnac
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
| | - Allison Gilmore
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
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Baldwin R, Coomber K, Scott D, Paradies Y, Boffa J, Miller PG. Trends in child and adolescent assault and maltreatment following the re-introduction of the Banned Drinker Register in the Northern Territory, Australia. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 154:106939. [PMID: 38991622 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2024.106939] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2017 the Northern Territory (NT) government re-introduced the Banned Drinker Register (BDR) to address the high rates of alcohol related harm. This paper aims to evaluate whether trends in assault, maltreatment and sentinel injuries in children and adolescents were associated with the re-introduction of the BDR, in the context of other local interventions such as police officers stationed in bottle shops being partially removed, Police Auxiliary Liquor Inspectors, and the introduction of a minimum unit price of alcohol. METHOD Interrupted time series analysis was used to assess monthly trends in emergency department presentations and inpatient hospital admissions for assault, maltreatment and sentinel injuries between January 2014 and December 2019 in the regions of Greater Darwin, Alice Springs, and Katherine. RESULTS A significant step increase after the introduction of the BDR in emergency department presentations for assault and maltreatment was present when examining the three regions combined (β = 7.65, 95 % CI = 2.15, 13.16). However, this was not present at the individual community level. Results across a range of other models pointed towards null effects of the BDR introduction. CONCLUSIONS The current study found that the re-introduction of the BDR had minimal impact on rates of assault, maltreatment, or sentinel injuries in children and adolescents. To ensure long-term harm mitigation from alcohol use, a combination of evidence informed alcohol policies that address the price and availability of alcohol in a comprehensive framework, along with measures which address the underlying social determinants of unregulated drinking and health more broadly will assist in reducing alcohol related harm in both children and adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Baldwin
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Kerri Coomber
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Debbie Scott
- Eastern Health Clinical School and Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Box Hill, Australia; Turning Point, Eastern Health, Richmond, Australia; Australia Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia; GLOBE, School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yin Paradies
- School of Human and Social Science, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - John Boffa
- Central Australian Aboriginal Congress, Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Peter G Miller
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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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.
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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
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4
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Meunier S, Harroche A, Rauch A, Bally C, Huguenin Y, Voltzenlogel R, Tabélé C, Chambost H, Balençon M. Severe haemorrhages leading to a diagnosis of rare bleeding disorder occur at a very young age: A study from the FranceCoag network. Haemophilia 2024; 30:981-987. [PMID: 38738973 DOI: 10.1111/hae.15033] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the context of severe unexplained haemorrhage (SH), it is usual to seek haematological evaluation and investigate for an inherited rare bleeding disorder (IRBD). In such circumstances, appropriate screen can discriminate between IRBD and suspected child abuse. Yet, little information is available about the frequency of SH in the population of patients with IRBD. AIM To collect epidemiologic data about SH and IRBD. METHOD The database of the FranceCoag network has collected information about IRBD since January 2004. Based on data gathered up to 16 March 2022, a retrospective search was conducted for of SH events having occurred before or at the time of IRBD diagnosis. Demographics and diagnosis circumstances were retrieved, as well as information about SH, defined as any life-threatening bleeding or intracranial haemorrhage. RESULTS Among the 13,433 patients of the database, 109 (0.8%) fulfilled inclusion criteria including a known date of IRBD diagnosis, haemophilia A or B (HA/HB) being the most frequent (82.5%). IRBD was discovered as a consequence of an SH event in 82.6% of the cases while CNS was involved in 55%. Severe and moderate HA/HB and other severe IRBD presented significantly more intracranial haemorrhage (p < .02) and a lower age at diagnosis (p = .03). CONCLUSIONS These data support that any unusual SH should raise a suspicion of IRBD. Particularly before 1-year of age, it is suggested to first confirm moderate or severe haemophilia and severe IRBD by standard coagulation tests (APTT, PT and fibrinogen), combined with a clotting FXIII assay as first-line investigation. Subsequent assays of coagulation factors should be performed in the case of abnormal values, in second-line investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Meunier
- Hospices Civils de Lyon- Centre de Référence Hémophilie - Unité d'Hémostase Clinique CHU de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Annie Harroche
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique Centre de Traitement de l'Hémophilie, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Rauch
- Unité d'Hémostase Clinique et Biologique - Pôle d'Hématologie Transfusion - Institut Cœur Poumon, Lille, France
| | - Cécile Bally
- Service d'Hématologie Clinique Centre de Traitement de l'Hémophilie, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Yoann Huguenin
- Centre de Ressources et de Compétences Maladies Hémorragiques Constitutionnelles, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - Hervé Chambost
- Centre de Traitement des Hémophiles, Hôpital Universitaire La Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Martine Balençon
- Service de Pédiatrie, CHU de Caen & Université de Caen Normandie, Caen, France
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Crumm CE, Brown ECB, Vora SB, Lowry S, Schlatter A, Rutman LE. The Impact of an Emergency Department Bruising Pathway on Disparities in Child Abuse Evaluation. Pediatr Emerg Care 2023; 39:580-585. [PMID: 37391189 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous research has shown racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in provider medical evaluations and reporting to child protective services (CPS) and law enforcement (LE) for cases of suspected child physical abuse. Our hospital standardized evaluation and reporting of high-risk bruising using a clinical pathway. We aimed to assess whether standardization impacted disparity. METHODS We performed a retrospective observational study including children evaluated in the emergency department who had a social work consult for concern for child abuse or neglect between June 2012 and December 2019. From this group, we identified children with high-risk bruising. We compared outcomes (receipt of skeletal survey, CPS report, or LE report) before and after implementation of a standard bruising evaluation pathway to determine how the intervention changed practice among various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. RESULTS During the study period, 2129 children presented to the ED and received a social work consult for child abuse or neglect. Of these, 333 had high-risk bruising. Children without private insurance had a higher risk of having a CPS (adjusted relative risk, 1.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-1.60) or LE (adjusted relative risk, 1.48; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-1.97) report prepathway, but not after pathway implementation. No significant associations were seen for race or ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS A standardized clinical pathway for identification and evaluation of high-risk bruising may help to decrease socioeconomic disparities in reporting high-risk bruising. Larger studies are needed to fully evaluate disparities in assessment and reporting of child abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sarah Lowry
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA
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Vlaming M, Sauer PJJ, Janssen EPF, van Koppen PJ, Bruijninckx CMA, Akkerman-Zaalberg van Zelst MWM, Neumann HAM, van Gemert MJC. Child Abuse, Misdiagnosed by an Expertise Center: Part I-Medico-Social Aspects. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:963. [PMID: 37371195 PMCID: PMC10297267 DOI: 10.3390/children10060963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Child abuse is a dangerous situation for an infant. Professionals need to weigh the risk of failing to act when children are seriously harmed against the serious harm done by carrying out safeguarding interventions. In severe cases, foster care might be advisable. The negative effects for the child's psychosocial development requires that such placement must be based on very solid evidence. Our aim is to identify why Dutch parents whose child may have a medical condition that could mimic symptoms of child abuse have a significant chance of being erroneously convicted and losing custody of their child. As a method, we describe and analyze the following case. An Armenian-Dutch newborn (uncomplicated term vaginal delivery), starting at two weeks after birth, developed small bruises on varying body locations. At two months, a Well-Baby Clinic physician referred the girl to a university hospital, mentioning that there were no reasons to suspect child abuse and that her Armenian grandmother easily bruised as well. However, before consultation by a pediatrician of the hospital-located Expertise Center for Child Abuse, the parents were suspected of child abuse. Based on the expertise center's protocols, skeletal X-rays were made, which showed three healed, asymptomatic rib fractures, while invalid statistics suggested, incorrectly, a 10-100 times more likely non-accidental than accidental cause of the symptoms (discussed in Part II of this series). The expertise enter physician ignored any argument that could show parental innocence, including the positive parent-child relationship reported by the Well-Baby Clinic and the general practitioner. The girl and her older brother were placed in a family foster home and then in a secret home. The case radically resolved when a large bruise also developed there, and an independent tissue disease specialist diagnosed a hereditary connective tissue disorder in the mother, implying that the girl's bruises and rib fractures could well be disease-related. In conclusion, if child abuse is suspected, and foster care placement considered, the patient and the parents should be thoroughly investigated by an independent experienced pediatrician together with an experienced pediatric clinical psychologist or psychotherapist to produce an independent opinion. Children deserve this extra safeguard before being separated from their parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Vlaming
- Private Practice, Criminal Psychology and Law, 6986 CL Angerlo, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter J. J. Sauer
- Department of Pediatrics, Beatrix Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Emile P. F. Janssen
- Private Practice, Rehabilitation Medicine & Consultancy, 6137 CL Sittard, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J. van Koppen
- Department of Criminal Law and Criminology, Faculty of Law, VU University Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Martin J. C. van Gemert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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van Gemert MJC, Zwinderman AH, van Koppen PJ, Neumann HAM, Vlaming M. Child Abuse, Misdiagnosed by an Expertise Center-Part II-Misuse of Bayes' Theorem. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:843. [PMID: 37238391 PMCID: PMC10217160 DOI: 10.3390/children10050843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A newborn girl had, from two weeks on, small bruises on varying body locations, but not on her chest. Her Armenian grandmother easily bruised, too. Her mother was diagnosed with hypermobility-type Ehlers-Danlos-Syndrome (hEDS), an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder, with a 50% inheritance probability. Referral to a University Medical Center located "Dutch Expertise Center for Child Abuse" resulted (prior to consultation) in physical abuse suspicion. Protocol-based skeletal X-rays showed three healed, asymptomatic rib fractures. A protocol-based Bayesian likelihood ratio guesstimation gave 10-100, erroneously used to suggest a 10-100 times likelier non-accidental-than-accidental cause. Foster care placement followed, even in a secret home, where she also bruised, suggesting hEDS inheritance. Correct non-accidental/accidental Bayes' probability of symptoms is (likelihood ratio) × (physical abuse incidence). From the literature, we derived an infant abuse incidence between about ≈0.0009 and ≈0.0026 and a likelihood ratio of <5 for bruises. For rib fractures, we used a zero likelihood ratio, arguing their cause was birth trauma from the extra delivery pressure on the chest, combined with fragile bones as the daughter of an hEDS-mother. We thus derived a negligible abuse/accidental probability between <5 × 0.0009 <0.005 and <5 × 0.0026 <0.013. The small abuse incidence implies that correctly using Bayes' theorem will also miss true infant physical abuse cases. Curiously, because likelihood ratios assess how more often symptoms develop if abuse did occur versus non-abuse, Bayes' theorem then implies a 100% infant abuse incidence (unwittingly) used by LECK. In conclusion, probabilities should never replace differential diagnostic procedures, the accepted medical method of care. Well-known from literature, supported by the present case, is that (child abuse pediatrics) physicians, child protection workers, and judges were unlikely to understand Bayesian statistics. Its use without statistics consultation should therefore not have occurred. Thus, Bayesian statistics, and certainly (misused) likelihood ratios, should never be applied in cases of physical child abuse suspicion. Finally, parental innocence follows from clarifying what could have caused the girl's bruises (inherited hEDS), and rib fractures (birth trauma from fragile bones).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J. C. van Gemert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering & Physics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aeilko H. Zwinderman
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Bio-Statistics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J. van Koppen
- Department of Criminal Law and Criminology, Faculty of Law, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marianne Vlaming
- Private Practice, Criminal Psychology and Law, 6986 CL Angerlo, The Netherlands
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Wallace F, Collins JA, Talawila Da Camara N, Kemp AM, Prosser I, Mullen S. Fifteen-minute consultation: Bruising in the premobile child. Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed 2023; 108:80-85. [PMID: 34489327 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-321661] [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: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
A bruise in a premobile infant is an uncommon finding and often results in referral to the paediatric or emergency departments, acknowledging the potential for physical abuse in this vulnerable cohort. Our role as clinicians is to undertake a thorough assessment, consider potential differentials and organise appropriate investigations, with involvement of the wider multidisciplinary team. In this article, we use a case vignette to discuss how one would approach a bruise in the premobile infant including the evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Wallace
- Paediatric Emergency Department, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Julie-Ann Collins
- Paediatric Emergency Department, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Alison Mary Kemp
- Division of Population Medicine, Department of Child Health, Cardiff, UK
| | - Ingrid Prosser
- Department of Child Health, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Stephen Mullen
- Paediatric Emergency Department, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Bilson A, Talia A. Bruises in Premobile Infants: A Contested Area of Research, Policy and Practice. PRACTICE (BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND) 2022; 35:281-296. [PMID: 38013882 PMCID: PMC10449270 DOI: 10.1080/09503153.2022.2140132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
This paper provides an analysis of the procedures adopted by statutory safeguarding partners throughout England in response to finding bruising in premobile infants. Against the backdrop of empirical research, we begin by challenging the view that bruising in premobile infants can be considered rare and thus suggestive of physical abuse. Then, within the procedure themselves, we point to differences in the definitions of what constitutes a premobile child, differences in the interpretation of research into bruising, and differences in how local authorities require social workers to act. We then discuss the risks involved with over-reaction to bruising in premobile children. Finally, we suggest changes to procedures that would support the appropriate use of discretion by social workers and health staff in this difficult area of practise.
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Biss T, Sibson K, Baker P, Macartney C, Grayson C, Grainger J, Chalmers E, Dixon S. Haematological evaluation of bruising and bleeding in children undergoing child protection investigation for possible physical maltreatment: A British Society for Haematology Good Practice Paper. Br J Haematol 2022; 199:45-53. [PMID: 35881677 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tina Biss
- The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Peter Baker
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Caroline Grayson
- The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - John Grainger
- Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Sarah Dixon
- Manchester Health and Care Commissioning, Manchester, UK
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Manan MR, Rahman S, Komer L, Manan H, Iftikhar S. A Multispecialty Approach to the Identification and Diagnosis of Nonaccidental Trauma in Children. Cureus 2022; 14:e27276. [PMID: 36039273 PMCID: PMC9404682 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Child abuse is a preventable phenomenon of considerable concern resulting in significant child mortality and morbidity. We analyze various abuse lesions such as radiological (visceral and skeletal lesions and those associated with head trauma) and cutaneous (burns, bruises, bites, etc.) to enhance streamlined identification of injuries in cases of physical child abuse. For effective results, it is essential to remain mindful of all background factors, such as the caregiver setting and the prevalence of child maltreatment in the concerned community while acknowledging the possibility of natural causes (genetic diseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta and hemophilia, or acquired abnormalities) that can mimic NAT and cause confusion in diagnosis and treatment. The margin of error in cases of abuse is negligible, therefore, making its diagnosis a momentous as well as challenging clinical task. An ineffective diagnosis can have detrimental emotional consequences for the family and may even expose the child to future potentially fatal episodes of abuse. Hence, there is a need to direct special focus on the importance of accurate history taking and immediate, responsible reporting to authorities, as well as to child protective services. Therefore, considering the multifactorial approach this subject requires, this review aims to delve into prevalence statistics, various risk factors, and their effect on psychological health to offer a near-complete regulation to ensure an effective understanding of NAT on part of doctors, social workers, and other relevant authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Rahman
- Basic Sciences, Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore, PAK
| | - Leah Komer
- Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, CAN
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12
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Kwak YH. Diagnosis of Abusive Head Trauma : Neurosurgical Perspective. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2022; 65:370-379. [PMID: 35468707 PMCID: PMC9082129 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2021.0284] [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: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the most severe form of physical abuse in children. Such injury involves traumatic damage to the head and/or spine of infants and young children. The term AHT was introduced to include a wider range of injury mechanisms, such as intentional direct blow, throw, and even penetrating trauma by perpetuator(s). Currently, it is recommended to replace the former term, shaken baby syndrome, which implicates shaking as the only mechanism, with AHT to include diverse clinical and radiological manifestations. The consequences of AHT cause devastating medical, social and financial burdens on families, communities, and victims. The potential harm of AHT to the developing brain and spinal cord of the victims is tremendous. Many studies have reported that the adverse effects of AHT are various and serious, such as blindness, mental retardation, physical limitation of daily activities and even psychological problems. Therefore, appropriate vigilance for the early recognition and diagnosis of AHT is highly recommended to stop and prevent further injuries. The aim of this review is to summarize the relevant evidence concerning the early recognition and diagnosis of AHT. To recognize this severe type of child abuse early, all health care providers maintain a high index of suspicion and vigilance. Such suspicion can be initiated with careful and thorough history taking and physical examinations. Previously developed clinical prediction rules can be helpful for decision-making regarding starting an investigation when considering meaningful findings. Even the combination of biochemical markers may be useful to predict AHT. For a more confirmative evaluation, neuroradiological imaging is required to find AHT-specific findings. Moreover, timely consultation with ophthalmologists is needed to find a very specific finding, retinal hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Ho Kwak
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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13
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Brown JC, Metz JB. Pinna Bruising in Children. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1729-e1730. [PMID: 32398597 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Pinna bruising can be associated with abuse, but can also be due to accidental injury. We present 3 cases of pinna bruises and discuss features associated with accidental and nonaccidental injury. Attention to the history, the pattern of bruising, and any other findings identified on a careful, thorough examination will help differentiate the two.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James B Metz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
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Scafide KN, Bahari G, Kutahyalioglu NS, Mohammadifirouzeh M, Senko SM. Development and Pilot Analysis of the Bruise Visibility Scale. SAGE Open Nurs 2021; 7:23779608211020931. [PMID: 34423127 PMCID: PMC8371286 DOI: 10.1177/23779608211020931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The accuracy of assessing and documenting injuries is crucial to facilitate
ongoing clinical care and forensic referrals for victims of violence. The
purpose of this cross-sectional, pilot study was to evaluate the inter-rater
reliability and criterion validity of a newly developed Bruise Visibility
Scale (BVS). Methods: The instrument was administered to a
diverse sample (n = 30) with existing bruises. Bruises were assessed under
fluorescent lighting typical of an examination room by three raters who were
randomly selected from a pool of eight experienced clinical nurses.
Colorimetry values of the bruise and surrounding tissue were obtained using
a spectrophotometer. Results: The BVS demonstrated good single
(ICC = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.54 – 0.84) and average agreement (ICC = 0.88, 95%
CI = 0.78 – 0.94) between raters. A significant, positive moderate
correlation was found between mean BVS scores and overall color difference
between the bruise and surrounding skin (Pearson’s r = 0.614,
p < 0.001). Conclusion: With further
research, the BVS has the potential to be a reliable and valid tool for
documenting the degree of clarity in bruise appearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine N Scafide
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States
| | - Ghareeb Bahari
- College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nesibe S Kutahyalioglu
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States
| | - Mona Mohammadifirouzeh
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States
| | - Susan M Senko
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States
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15
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Kemp AM, Maguire SA, Nuttall DE, Collins P, Dunstan FD, Farewell D. Can TEN4 distinguish bruises from abuse, inherited bleeding disorders or accidents? Arch Dis Child 2021; 106:774-779. [PMID: 33602690 PMCID: PMC8311104 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2020-320491] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Does TEN4 categorisation of bruises to the torso, ear or neck or any bruise in <4-month-old children differentiate between abuse, accidents or inherited bleeding disorders (IBDs)? DESIGN Prospective comparative longitudinal study. SETTING Community. PATIENTS Children <6 years old. INTERVENTIONS The number and location of bruises compared for 2568 data collections from 328 children in the community, 1301 from 106 children with IBD and 342 abuse cases. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Likelihood ratios (LRs) for the number of bruises within the TEN and non-TEN locations for pre-mobile and mobile children: abuse vs accidental injury, IBD vs accident, abuse vs IBD. RESULTS Any bruise in a pre-mobile child was more likely to be from abuse/IBD than accident. The more bruises a pre-mobile child had, the higher the LR for abuse/IBD vs accident. A single bruise in a TEN location in mobile children was not supportive of abuse/IBD. For mobile children with more than one bruise, including at least one in TEN locations, the LR favouring abuse/IBD increased. Applying TEN4 to collections from abused and accidental group <48 months of age with at least one bruise gave estimated sensitivity of 69% and specificity for abuse of 74%. CONCLUSIONS These data support further child protection investigations of a positive TEN4 screen in any pre-mobile children with a bruise and in mobile children with more than one bruise. TEN4 did not discriminate between IBD and abuse, thus IBD needs to be excluded in these children. Estimated sensitivity and specificity of TEN4 was appreciably lower than previously reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Mary Kemp
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Sabine Ann Maguire
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Dianne E Nuttall
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Frank D Dunstan
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Daniel Farewell
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
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16
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Abstract
ABSTRACT Bruising is the most common presentation of child physical abuse. Many patterns of abusive bruising result in positive or negative imprints of the implement used (eg, fingertips in "grab mark" contusions or hand in slap injury). However, bruising may also form along the lines of greatest anatomical stress (eg, gluteal cleft or pinna bruising). Bruising due to abusive squeezing also forms along lines of greatest anatomical stress, resulting in a negative imprint of the flexural folds of the hand. Four cases of children with this unique pattern of bruising due to abusive squeezing are presented. Recognition of these bruises as inflicted represents an opportunity for early identification and intervention in cases of child physical abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lori D Frasier
- Penn State Milton S. Hershey Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA
| | - Nina Livingston
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT
| | - Rebecca Moles
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford, CT
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17
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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.
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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
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18
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Pierce MC, Kaczor K, Lorenz DJ, Bertocci G, Fingarson AK, Makoroff K, Berger RP, Bennett B, Magana J, Staley S, Ramaiah V, Fortin K, Currie M, Herman BE, Herr S, Hymel KP, Jenny C, Sheehan K, Zuckerbraun N, Hickey S, Meyers G, Leventhal JM. Validation of a Clinical Decision Rule to Predict Abuse in Young Children Based on Bruising Characteristics. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e215832. [PMID: 33852003 PMCID: PMC8047759 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.5832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Bruising caused by physical abuse is the most common antecedent injury to be overlooked or misdiagnosed as nonabusive before an abuse-related fatality or near-fatality in a young child. Bruising occurs from both nonabuse and abuse, but differences identified by a clinical decision rule may allow improved and earlier recognition of the abused child. OBJECTIVE To refine and validate a previously derived bruising clinical decision rule (BCDR), the TEN-4 (bruising to torso, ear, or neck or any bruising on an infant <4.99 months of age), for identifying children at risk of having been physically abused. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2011, to March 31, 2016, at emergency departments of 5 urban children's hospitals. Children younger than 4 years with bruising were identified through deliberate examination. Statistical analysis was completed in June 2020. EXPOSURES Bruising characteristics in 34 discrete body regions, patterned bruising, cumulative bruise counts, and patient's age. The BCDR was refined and validated based on these variables using binary recursive partitioning analysis. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Injury from abusive vs nonabusive trauma was determined by the consensus judgment of a multidisciplinary expert panel. RESULTS A total of 21 123 children were consecutively screened for bruising, and 2161 patients (mean [SD] age, 2.1 [1.1] years; 1296 [60%] male; 1785 [83%] White; 1484 [69%] non-Hispanic/Latino) were enrolled. The expert panel achieved consensus on 2123 patients (98%), classifying 410 (19%) as abuse and 1713 (79%) as nonabuse. A classification tree was fit to refine the rule and validated via bootstrap resampling. The resulting BCDR was 95.6% (95% CI, 93.0%-97.3%) sensitive and 87.1% (95% CI, 85.4%-88.6%) specific for distinguishing abuse from nonabusive trauma based on body region bruised (torso, ear, neck, frenulum, angle of jaw, cheeks [fleshy], eyelids, and subconjunctivae), bruising anywhere on an infant 4.99 months and younger, or patterned bruising (TEN-4-FACESp). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this study, an affirmative finding for any of the 3 BCDR TEN-4-FACESp components in children younger than 4 years indicated a potential risk for abuse; these results warrant further evaluation. Clinical application of this tool has the potential to improve recognition of abuse in young children with bruising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Clyde Pierce
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kim Kaczor
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Douglas J. Lorenz
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Gina Bertocci
- Department of Bioengineering, J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Amanda K. Fingarson
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of Child Abuse Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kathi Makoroff
- Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Rachel P. Berger
- Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Berkeley Bennett
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus
| | - Julia Magana
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento
| | - Shannon Staley
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Advocate Children's Hospital, Oak Lawn, Illinois
| | - Veena Ramaiah
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kristine Fortin
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of Child Abuse Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of General Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Melissa Currie
- Norton Children’s Pediatric Protection Specialists Affiliated with the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Bruce E. Herman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City
| | - Sandra Herr
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Kent P. Hymel
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Carole Jenny
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle
| | - Karen Sheehan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Noel Zuckerbraun
- Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sheila Hickey
- Department of Social Work, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Gabriel Meyers
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - John M. Leventhal
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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19
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Crumm CE, Brown EC, Thomas-Smith S, Yu DT, Metz JB, Feldman KW. Evaluation of an Emergency Department High-risk Bruising Screening Protocol. Pediatrics 2021; 147:peds.2020-002444. [PMID: 33653877 PMCID: PMC8015159 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-002444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to describe the outcomes of implementing a high-risk bruise screening pathway in a pediatric emergency department (ED). METHODS A retrospective observational study was performed of children aged 0 to <48 months who presented to the ED between December 1, 2016, and April 1, 2019, and had bruising that is high-risk for physical abuse on a nurse screening examination. A high-risk bruise was defined as any bruise if aged <6 months or a bruise to the torso, ears, or neck if aged 6 to <48 months. Records of children with provider-confirmed high-risk bruising were reviewed. RESULTS Of the 49 726 age-eligible children presenting to the ED, 43 771 (88%) were screened for bruising. Seven hundred eighty-three (1.8%) of those children had positive screen results and 163 (0.4%) had provider-confirmed high-risk bruising. Of the 8635 infants aged <6 months who were screened, 48 (0.6%) had high-risk bruising and 24 of 48 (50%) were classified as cases of likely or definite abuse. Skeletal surveys were performed in 29 of 48 (60%) infants, and 11 of 29 (38%) had occult fracture. Of the 35 136 children aged 6 to <48 months who were screened, 115 of 35 136 (0.3%) had high-risk bruising and 32 of 115 (28%) were classified as cases of likely or definite abuse. CONCLUSIONS High-risk bruising was rarely present. When infants aged <6 months were evaluated per recommendations, occult fracture was identified in one-third of patients. The screening pathway could help other institutions identify occult injuries in pediatric ED patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E. Crumm
- Seattle Children’s Hospital and,Divisions of General Pediatrics and
| | - Emily C.B. Brown
- Seattle Children’s Hospital and,Divisions of General Pediatrics and
| | - Siobhan Thomas-Smith
- Seattle Children’s Hospital and,Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; and
| | - Daniel T.Y. Yu
- Seattle Children’s Hospital and,Divisions of General Pediatrics and
| | - James B. Metz
- Divisions of Pediatric Hospitalist Medicine and Child Abuse Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, The University of Vermont Children’s Hospital, Burlington, Vermont
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20
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Maggioni L, Maderna E, Gorio MC, Cappella A, Andreola S, Bulfamante G, Cattaneo C. The frequently dismissed importance of properly sampling skin bruises. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2021; 50:101867. [PMID: 33639541 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2021.101867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The correct interpretation of skin lesions is a crucial issue in forensic medicine. Many macroscopic and microscopic vital reaction markers and molecules have been studied in the past years in order to estimate the timing of injuries. However, literature lacks information regarding how to perform sampling to obtain a more reliable and accurate response. The present study investigates 25 bruises and analyses the different histological asset in different areas (central or marginal) and the different layers (epidermis, dermis, hypodermis and muscle) of the wound. All wounds were sampled in several areas and analysed under a 200× magnification optical microscope, simply counting the degree of haemorrhaging (i.e hematic infiltration) visible in each optical field (0 = 0%-5%; 1 = 6%-25%; 2 = 26%-50%; 3 = 51%-75%; 4 = 76%-100%). All the injuries presented some kind of infiltration in at least one area, nonetheless only 56% of the wounds were infiltrated in the entirety of the areas. Finally, in 28% the dermal layer did not show any trace of infiltration. Therefore, considering such results it seems that depth or area of sampling of a bruise may largely influence the evaluation of vitality and hence of age of a wound. Though this may seem intuitive, no studies have examined this issue in depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Maggioni
- LABANOF, Laboratorio di Antropologia e Odontologia Forense, Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Maderna
- LABANOF, Laboratorio di Antropologia e Odontologia Forense, Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Carlotta Gorio
- LABANOF, Laboratorio di Antropologia e Odontologia Forense, Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Cappella
- LABANOF, Laboratorio di Antropologia e Odontologia Forense, Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy; Sezione di Anatomia Umana, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Andreola
- Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Gaetano Bulfamante
- Sezione di Citogenetica e Patologia Molecolare, Dipartimento di patologia umana, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Cattaneo
- LABANOF, Laboratorio di Antropologia e Odontologia Forense, Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
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21
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Sarkar R, Ozanne-Smith J, Bassed R. Systematic Review of the Patterns of Orofacial Injuries in Physically Abused Children and Adolescents. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2021; 22:136-146. [PMID: 30852989 DOI: 10.1177/1524838019827617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the evidence base for patterns of oro-facial injuries in physical abuse cases of children and adolescents aged 0-17 years. DATA SOURCES Systematic searches of Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, Cochrane Central and grey literature, dating from the oldest entry to August 2017. REVIEW METHODS Search criteria included English language peer reviewed articles and theses on physical abuse cases affecting the age group of 0-17 years. Exclusion criteria were: Case reports and <10 case series; studies involving bite mark injuries elsewhere on the body, sexual, ritualistic or emotional abuse and neglect, exposure to domestic violence; reviews; book chapters and conference proceedings. The following data was extracted: quality and design of study, oro-facial manifestations, new/old injuries, fatalities, coexistent injuries, co-morbidities and radiologic investigations. Each study was subjected to two independent reviews and a third, if reviewers disagreed. RESULTS The authors identified 51 articles, 26 of which satisfied the inclusion criteria. The oro-facial signs were superficial injuries of face, ears, neck, lips and oral mucosa, burns, torn fraenii and fractured teeth and jaws. A minority of studies stood out due to their well-developed design; expert opinion inclusion; new/old/occult injury investigations and facial bruising/ intraoral injuries as sentinel markers. Overall, the review demonstrated weak study quality and representativeness as well as lacunae in uniform reporting. CONCLUSIONS The available literature does not endorse any pathognomonic signature patterns of child physical abuse to the exposed oro-facial region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reena Sarkar
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joan Ozanne-Smith
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Bassed
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- 7427Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Shih AF, Sharaf M. Pressure Urticaria in an Infant Appearing Similar to Physical Abuse. Pediatrics 2020; 146:peds.2019-3644. [PMID: 32994176 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2019-3644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A healthy Hispanic boy was born via cesarean delivery after an uncomplicated pregnancy. At 4 weeks old , his parents brought him to the emergency department for bruising on both soles of the feet. At 6 weeks old, his parents brought him to primary care for new bruises on his arms and back. After evaluation, primary care referred the patient to the emergency department. The parents denied any recent trauma, fever, cough, decreased urine, or change in appetite. Because of 2 episodes of unexplained bruising, the Department of Children and Families was granted emergency custody of the child. Hematology and ophthalmology did not identify any clear abnormalities. Skeletal surveys were normal. Dermatology was consulted. The examination was normal except for pink blanching patches on the upper back and linearly arranged pink blanching papules on the right lower leg. No crusting, erosions, hyperpigmentation, purpura, petechiae, or ecchymoses were seen. These lesions completely resolved the next day. He tested positive for dermatographism and developed similar lesions on his soles after pushing his feet down onto a soft surface. The intermittent urticarial skin changes were most consistent with physical urticaria. Such lesions could be mistaken for trauma; however, blood vessel damage typically results in progressive coloration changes for >1 day. At the emergency court hearing, given the concurring medical opinions of the dermatologist, pediatrician, and Child Protective Services, the judge returned full custody to the parents. This case reveals the value of dermatologic expertise in assessing skin changes, particularly those associated with physical abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen F Shih
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mohammed Sharaf
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
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23
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Johnson G, Green F, Clift H, Johnson CP. Experimental modelling of imposed upper airway obstruction in infants and children. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2020; 16:622-632. [PMID: 32902740 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-020-00298-1] [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] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The interpretation of injuries to children and infants poses a number of difficulties to any medical practitioner involved in their care or tasked with the investigation their death. This includes differentiating accidental from non-accidental trauma and the consideration of medical factors making a child more prone to injury. Non-fatal but life-threatening upper airway obstruction is unfortunately a well-recognized pattern of abuse which may precede a fatal episode. In this experimental study, we aimed to model theoretical digit marks to the head using infant and young child resuscitation dummies, exposed to various methods of deliberate upper airway obstruction. This work has demonstrated that digit marks can be left anywhere on the head and face. However, the distribution of these marks varies dramatically based on how the airway was obstructed. Moreover, digit marks also appeared to be linked together in fairly reproducible patterns. Given the findings in this study, the identification of one or more fingertip type bruises anywhere on an infant or child's face or scalp, should raise the index of suspicion that the individual may have been subject to deliberate upper airway obstruction. This should prompt healthcare professionals to examine the child for markers of mechanical asphyxia, in order to accurately interpret any inadequately explained bruising to the head and face.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Johnson
- Aintree University Hospital, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Lower Lane, Liverpool, Merseyside, L9 7AL, UK.
| | - Frederick Green
- The Whittington Hospital, Whittington Health NHS Trust, Magdala Avenue, London, N19 5NF, UK
| | - Harriet Clift
- The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Prescot Street, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK
| | - Christopher Paul Johnson
- Department of Forensic Pathology, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Prescot Street, Liverpool, L7 8XP, UK
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24
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Gregory KA, Fingarson AK. Bruising in Infants and Children: Minor Skin Injuries Can Have Major Implications. CLINICAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpem.2020.100785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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25
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Abstract
The US Department of Health and Human Services statistics indicate that cases of child maltreatment are rising. This can be an extra burden on an already strained health care system. Although a call to child protective service may be warranted, a thorough history and initial testing may be sufficient to diagnose a child abuse mimic and rule out physical abuse. This testing can help facilitate the investigation and can also prevent unneeded stress on a family. The most common presentation of physical abuse is a skin finding, typically a bruise. A detailed history and physical examination can help differentiate between physical abuse and mimics of physical abuse. Familiarity with mimics can help one in establishing a differential diagnosis and facilitate the testing for physical abuse. As skin findings may be the first indicator of abuse, this article focuses on abnormal skin findings that can mimic abuse and how to differentiate them from abuse. [Pediatr Ann. 2020;49(8):e341-e346.].
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26
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Rosen T, LoFaso VM, Bloemen EM, Clark S, McCarthy TJ, Reisig C, Gogia K, Elman A, Markarian A, Flomenbaum NE, Sharma R, Lachs MS. Identifying Injury Patterns Associated With Physical Elder Abuse: Analysis of Legally Adjudicated Cases. Ann Emerg Med 2020; 76:266-276. [PMID: 32534832 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2020.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Elder abuse is common and has serious health consequences but is underrecognized by health care providers. An important reason for this is difficulty in distinguishing between elder abuse and unintentional trauma. Our goal was to identify injury patterns associated with physical elder abuse in comparison with those of patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with unintentional falls. METHODS We partnered with a large, urban district attorney's office and examined medical, police, and legal records from successfully prosecuted cases of physical abuse of victims aged 60 years or older from 2001 to 2014. RESULTS We prospectively enrolled patients who presented to a large, urban, academic ED after an unintentional fall. We matched 78 cases of elder abuse with visible injuries to 78 unintentional falls. Physical abuse victims were significantly more likely than unintentional fallers to have bruising (78% versus 54%) and injuries on the maxillofacial, dental, and neck area (67% versus 28%). Abuse victims were less likely to have fractures (8% versus 22%) or lower extremity injuries (9% versus 41%). Abuse victims were more likely to have maxillofacial, dental, or neck injuries combined with no upper and lower extremity injuries (50% versus 8%). Examining precise injury locations yielded additional differences, with physical elder abuse victims more likely to have injuries to the left cheek or zygoma (22% versus 3%) or on the neck (15% versus 0%) or ear (6% versus 0%). CONCLUSION Specific, clinically identifiable differences may exist between unintentional injuries and those from physical elder abuse. This includes specific injury patterns that infrequently occur unintentionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Rosen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY.
| | - Veronica M LoFaso
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Care, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | | | - Sunday Clark
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | | | - Christopher Reisig
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Kriti Gogia
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Alyssa Elman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Arlene Markarian
- Elder Abuse Unit, King's County District Attorney's Office, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Neal E Flomenbaum
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Rahul Sharma
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
| | - Mark S Lachs
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Care, Weill Cornell Medicine/New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
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Scafide KN, Sheridan DJ, Downing NR, Hayat MJ. Detection of Inflicted Bruises by Alternate Light: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Forensic Sci 2020; 65:1191-1198. [PMID: 32012284 PMCID: PMC7383750 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Bruises are often difficult to detect on victims of violence, potentially impacting investigation and prosecution. The purpose of our randomized controlled trial was to measure the effectiveness of an alternate light source (ALS) within visible and long ultraviolet spectrums at improving bruise detection compared to white light over time. We also examined the effects of skin color, age, gender, localized fat, and injury mechanism on bruise detection. Participants included 157 healthy adults with balanced sampling across six skin color categories. Bruises were created under the controlled application of a paintball pellet and dropped weight to one upper and lower arm, respectively. Using a crossover design, both bruises were examined 21 times over 4 weeks. Ten different wavelength (350–535 nm) and filter (yellow, orange, red) combinations were used. Multilevel models were used to analyze 2903 examinations on both upper and lower arms. Results in multivariable models showed after controlling for other covariates 415 and 450 nm using a yellow filter had greater odds of detecting evidence of bruising than white light (Upper Arm: 415 nm: OR = 5.34, 95% CI: 4.35–6.56; 450 nm: OR = 4.08, 95% CI: 3.36–4.96). Under either light source, being female and having more localized fat had increased odds of detecting bruises created by the dropped weight (female: OR = 2.96, 95% CI: 2.37–3.70; fat: OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.09–1.34). Our results support ALS as an appropriate tool to enhance concurrent physical assessment of bruises in the presence of known history of injury. Future development and evaluation of clinical practice guidelines for ALS application are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine N Scafide
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA, 22030
| | - Daniel J Sheridan
- College of Nursing, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway, Bryan, TX, 77807
| | - Nancy R Downing
- College of Nursing, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, 8447 Riverside Parkway, Bryan, TX, 77807
| | - Matthew J Hayat
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, 140 Decatur Street, Atlanta, GA, 30303
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Bruise detection and visibility under alternate light during the first three days post-trauma. J Forensic Leg Med 2019; 69:101893. [PMID: 32056810 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2019.101893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cutaneous bruises are often hard to detect particularly on individuals with a darker complexion. Researchers and federal agencies have recommended the use of alternate light to aide in the assessment of subtle injury. However, studies are limited in their evaluation of wavelength performance during the first few days of bruise healing. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine whether an alternate light source (ALS) improves detection of bruises when compared to normal light typical of clinical practice during the first three days following induction. METHODS A sample of eight healthy adults between 22 and 36 years of age with diverse skin color were recruited for this study. One bruise was induced on each participant by dropping a 4-oz (113g) steel ball through a 5-ft (1.5 m) vertical pipe onto the anterior surface of the forearm. Using the ALS, bruises were assessed under 14 different combinations of ultraviolet and short narrowband visible wavelengths and filters along with overhead fluorescent "examination" lighting. Participants were examined 3 to 4 times per day at approximately 4-h intervals for three consecutive days post induction. RESULTS Repeated bruise assessments on 8 subjects resulted in 59 bruise assessments and 885 total observations under the different wavelengths and filters combinations. A bruise was detectable in 46 (78%) of the assessments, with bruise ages ranging from 30 min to 57 h. Twenty (34%) bruises not detectable under normal light were visible with ASL. Multilevel modeling revealed a strong association between time and detection for shorter wavelengths, such as 365 nm (ultraviolet) and 450 nm. CONCLUSION The results of our study suggest alternate light is more likely to detect faint bruises than normal lighting during the first three days post injury. However, more research is needed to determine which wavelengths and filter combinations are most effective during that time frame.
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Fingarson A, Fortin K. Yield of Neuroimaging in Infant Physical Abuse Evaluations: Do Infant Age and Injury Type Matter? J Emerg Med 2019; 57:195-202. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2019.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Cowley LE, Farewell DM, Kemp AM. Potential impact of the validated Predicting Abusive Head Trauma (PredAHT) clinical prediction tool: A clinical vignette study. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2018; 86:184-196. [PMID: 30312886 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2018.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The validated Predicting Abusive Head Trauma (PredAHT) tool estimates the probability of abusive head trauma (AHT) in children <3 years old with intracranial injury. OBJECTIVE To explore the impact of PredAHT on clinicians' AHT probability estimates and child protection (CP) actions, and assess inter-rater agreement between their estimates and between their CP actions, before and after PredAHT. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Twenty-nine clinicians from different specialties, at teaching and community hospitals. METHODS Clinicians estimated the probability of AHT and indicated their CP actions in six clinical vignettes. One vignette described a child with AHT, another described a child with non-AHT, and four represented "gray" cases, where the diagnosis was uncertain. Clinicians calculated the PredAHT score, and reported whether this altered their estimate/actions. The 'think-aloud' method was used to capture the reasoning behind their responses. Analysis included linear modelling, linear mixed-effects modelling, chi-square tests, Fisher's exact tests, intraclass correlation, Gwet's AC1 coefficient and thematic analysis. RESULTS Overall, PredAHT significantly influenced clinicians' probability estimates in all vignettes (p < 0.001), although the impact on individual clinicians varied. However, the influence of PredAHT on clinicians' CP actions was limited; after using PredAHT, 9/29 clinicians changed their CP actions in only 11/174 instances. Clinicians' AHT probability estimates and CP actions varied somewhat both before and after PredAHT. Qualitative data suggested that PredAHT may increase clinicians' confidence in their decisions when considered alongside other associated clinical, historical and social factors. CONCLUSIONS PredAHT significantly influenced clinicians' AHT probability estimates, but had minimal impact on their CP actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Cowley
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom.
| | - Daniel M Farewell
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom.
| | - Alison M Kemp
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom.
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Trefan L, Harris C, Evans S, Nuttall D, Maguire S, Kemp AM. A comparison of four different imaging modalities - Conventional, cross polarized, infra-red and ultra-violet in the assessment of childhood bruising. J Forensic Leg Med 2018; 59:30-35. [PMID: 30096460 PMCID: PMC6125673 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Background It is standard practice to image concerning bruises in children. We aim to compare the clarity and measurements of bruises using cross polarized, infra-red (IR) and ultra-violet (UV) images to conventional images. Methods Children aged <11 years with incidental bruising were recruited. Demographics, skin and bruise details were recorded. Bruises were imaged by standard protocols in conventional, cross-polarized, IR and UV lights. Bruises were assessed in vivo for contrast, uniformity and diffuseness, and these characteristics were then compared across image modalities. Color images (conventional, cross polarized) were segmented and measured by ImageJ. Bruises of grey scale images (IR, UV) were measured by a ‘plug in’ of ImageJ. The maximum and minimum Feret's diameter, area and aspect ratio, were determined. Comparison of measurements across imaging modalities was conducted using Wilcoxon rank sum tests and modified Bland-Altman graphs. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Twenty five children had 39 bruises. Bruises that were of low contrast, i.e. difficult to distinguish from surrounding skin, were also more diffuse, and less uniformity in vivo. Low contrast bruises were best seen on conventional and cross-polarized images and less distinctive on IR and UV images. Of the 19 bruises visible in all modalities, the only significant difference was maximum and minimum Feret's diameters and area were smaller on IR compared to conventional images. Aspect ratios were not affected by the modality. Conclusions Conventional and cross-polarized imaging provides the most consistent bruise measurement, particularly in bruises that are not easily distinguished from surrounding skin visually. Diffuse bruises may be measured on conventional & cross polarized imaging. Infrared or ultraviolet imaging may not show bruises which are difficult to see in vivo. Measurements of bruises using infrared imaging may be smaller than other modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Trefan
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK.
| | - C Harris
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK.
| | - S Evans
- Chief Clinical Photographer, Dental Photography, School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XY, UK.
| | - D Nuttall
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK.
| | - S Maguire
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK.
| | - A M Kemp
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK.
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Sociodemographic determinants of non-accidental traumatic injuries in children. Am J Surg 2018; 215:1037-1041. [DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2018.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Dsouza R, Bertocci G. Impact sites representing potential bruising locations associated with bed falls in children. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 286:86-95. [PMID: 29573641 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/18/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Bruising can occur as a result of accidental or abusive trauma in children. Bruises are an early sign of child abuse and their locations on the body can be an effective delineator of abusive trauma. Since falls are often reported as false histories in abuse, the ability to predict potential bruising locations in falls could be valuable when attempting to differentiate between abuse and accident. In our study we used an anthropomorphic test device (ATD), a surrogate representing a 12 month old child, adapted with a custom developed force sensing skin to predict potential bruising locations during simulated bed falls. The sensing skin is made of custom resistive force sensors integrated into a conformable skin, adapted to fit the contours of the ATD. The sensing skin measured and displayed recorded force data on a computerized body image mapping system when sensors were activated. Simulated bed fall experiments were performed from two initial positions (FF - facing forward and FR - facing rearward) and two fall heights of 61cm (24 in) and 91cm (36 in) onto a padded carpet impact surface. Findings indicated potential bruising primarily in two planes of the ATD body. The majority of contact regions and greater forces were recorded in one plane, with fewer regions of contact and decreased force exhibited in an adjoining second plane. Additionally, no contact was recorded in the two planes opposite the impact planes. Differences in contact regions were observed for varying heights and initial position. Limitations of ATD biofidelity and soft tissue properties must be considered when interpreting these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Dsouza
- Injury Risk Assessment and Prevention (iRAP) Laboratory, Bioengineering Department, University of Louisville, KY, USA.
| | - Gina Bertocci
- Injury Risk Assessment and Prevention (iRAP) Laboratory, Bioengineering Department, University of Louisville, KY, USA.
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Kemp AM, Hollén L, Emond AM, Nuttall D, Rea D, Maguire S. Raising suspicion of maltreatment from burns: Derivation and validation of the BuRN-Tool. Burns 2018; 44:335-343. [DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2017.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Harris C, Alcock A, Trefan L, Nuttall D, Evans ST, Maguire S, Kemp AM. Optimising the measurement of bruises in children across conventional and cross polarized images using segmentation analysis techniques in Image J, Photoshop and circle diameter measurements. J Forensic Leg Med 2018; 54:114-120. [PMID: 29413952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2017.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bruising is a common abusive injury in children, and it is standard practice to image and measure them, yet there is no current standard for measuring bruise size consistently. We aim to identify the optimal method of measuring photographic images of bruises, including computerised measurement techniques. METHODS 24 children aged <11 years (mean age of 6.9, range 2.5-10 years) with a bruise were recruited from the community. Demographics and bruise details were recorded. Each bruise was measured in vivo using a paper measuring tape. Standardised conventional and cross polarized digital images were obtained. The diameter of bruise images were measured by three computer aided measurement techniques: Image J (segmentation with Simple Interactive Object Extraction (maximum Feret diameter), 'Circular Selection Tool' (Circle diameter), & the Photoshop 'ruler' software (Photoshop diameter)). Inter and intra-observer effects were determined by two individuals repeating 11 electronic measurements, and relevant Intraclass Correlation Coefficient's (ICC's) were used to establish reliability. Spearman's rank correlation was used to compare in vivo with computerised measurements; a comparison of measurement techniques across imaging modalities was conducted using Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests. Significance was set at p < 0.05 for all tests. RESULTS Images were available for 38 bruises in vivo, with 48 bruises visible on cross polarized imaging and 46 on conventional imaging (some bruises interpreted as being single in vivo appeared to be multiple in digital images). Correlation coefficients were >0.5 for all techniques, with maximum Feret diameter and maximum Photoshop diameter on conventional images having the strongest correlation with in vivo measurements. There were significant differences between in vivo and computer-aided measurements, but none between different computer-aided measurement techniques. Overall, computer aided measurements appeared larger than in vivo. Inter- and intra-observer agreement was high for all maximum diameter measurements (ICC's > 0.7). CONCLUSIONS Whilst there are minimal differences between measurements of images obtained, the most consistent results were obtained when conventional images, segmented by Image J Software, were measured with a Feret diameter. This is therefore proposed as a standard for future research, and forensic practice, with the proviso that all computer aided measurements appear larger than in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Harris
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK.
| | - A Alcock
- Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport, UK.
| | - L Trefan
- School of Medicine, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK.
| | - D Nuttall
- School of Medicine, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK.
| | - S T Evans
- Dental Photography, School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK.
| | - S Maguire
- School of Medicine, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, UK; Division of Population Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4YS, UK.
| | - A M Kemp
- Division of Population Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4YS, UK.
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Course CW, Mott A, Tuthill D. Surveying paediatricians' assessment of childhood bruising patterns. Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:1186-1187. [PMID: 28814420 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2017-313449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alison Mott
- Department of Community Paediatrics, St. David's Hospital, Cardiff, UK
| | - David Tuthill
- Department of General Paediatrics, Noah's Ark Children's Hospital for Wales, Cardiff, Wales, UK
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Collins PW, Hamilton M, Dunstan FD, Maguire S, Nuttall DE, Liesner R, Thomas AE, Hanley J, Chalmers E, Blanchette V, Kemp AM. Patterns of bruising in preschool children with inherited bleeding disorders: a longitudinal study. Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:1110-1117. [PMID: 27449675 PMCID: PMC5754865 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2015-310196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The extent that inherited bleeding disorders affect; number, size and location of bruises in young children <6 years. DESIGN Prospective, longitudinal, observational study. SETTING Community. PATIENTS 105 children with bleeding disorders, were compared with 328 without a bleeding disorder and classified by mobility: premobile (non-rolling/rolling over/sitting), early mobile (crawling/cruising) and walking and by disease severity: severe bleeding disorder factor VIII/IX/XI <1 IU/dL or type 3 von Willebrand disease. INTERVENTIONS Number, size and location of bruises recorded in each child weekly for up to 12 weeks. OUTCOMES The interventions were compared between children with severe and mild/moderate bleeding disorders and those without bleeding disorders. Multiple collections for individual children were analysed by multilevel modelling. RESULTS Children with bleeding disorders had more and larger bruises, especially when premobile. Compared with premobile children without a bleeding disorder; the modelled ratio of means (95% CI) for number of bruises/collection was 31.82 (8.39 to 65.42) for severe bleeding disorders and 5.15 (1.23 to 11.17) for mild/moderate, and was 1.81 (1.13 to 2.23) for size of bruises. Children with bleeding disorders rarely had bruises on the ears, neck, cheeks, eyes or genitalia. CONCLUSIONS Children with bleeding disorder have more and larger bruises at all developmental stages. The differences were greatest in premobile children. In this age group for children with unexplained bruising, it is essential that coagulation studies are done early to avoid the erroneous diagnosis of physical abuse when the child actually has a serious bleeding disorder, however a blood test compatible with a mild/moderate bleeding disorder cannot be assumed to be the cause of bruising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Collins
- Department of Haematology, Institute of Infection and Immunity, School of Medicine Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Frank D Dunstan
- Institute of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Medicine Cardiff University, UK
| | - Sabine Maguire
- Institute of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Medicine Cardiff University, UK
| | - Diane E Nuttall
- Institute of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Medicine Cardiff University, UK
| | - Ri Liesner
- Department of Haematology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Angela E Thomas
- Department of Haematology, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - John Hanley
- Department of Haematology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, UK
| | - Elizabeth Chalmers
- Department of Haematology, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Glasgow, UK
| | - Victor Blanchette
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada,Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alison M Kemp
- Institute of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Medicine Cardiff University, UK
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Hibberd O, Nuttall D, Watson RE, Watkins WJ, Kemp AM, Maguire S. Childhood bruising distribution observed from eight mechanisms of unintentional injury. Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:1103-1109. [PMID: 28847881 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2017-312847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To inform the assessment of described mechanisms of bruising in children. DESIGN Prospective cross-sectional study. SETTING The emergency department, and children in the local community. PATIENTS Children aged 0-13 years with bruises from unintentional injuries. EXCLUSIONS bleeding disorder, medication affecting coagulation or child protection concerns. INTERVENTIONS Injury incidents were categorised into one of eight causal mechanisms (fall from<1 m, 1-2 m, fall from standing height or less and hitting an object during fall, stairs or impact, crush, sports or motor vehicle collision). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Location, number and mechanism of bruising for each injury mechanism. RESULTS 372 children had 559 injury incidents, resulting in 693 bruises; 85.2% of children were walking independently, with impact injuries and fall from standing height (including hitting an object) being the predominant mechanisms. A single bruise was observed in 81.7% of all incidents. Stair falls resulted in ≥3 bruises only with falls involving ≥10 steps (6/16). Bruising was rarely observed on the buttocks, upper arm, back of legs or feet. No bruises were seen in this dataset on ears, neck or genitalia. Petechial bruising was only noted in 1/293 unintentional incidents, involving a high-impact injury in a school-aged child. CONCLUSION These findings have the potential to aid an assessment of the plausibility of the explanation given for a child with bruising. Certain bruise distributions were rarely observed, namely multiple bruises from a single mechanism, petechiae and bruising to the ears, neck or genitalia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Hibberd
- Department of General Paediatrics, Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Rhiannon E Watson
- Department of General Practice, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
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Buesser KE, Leventhal JM, Gaither JR, Tate V, Cooperman DR, Moles RL, Silva CT, Ehrlich LJ, Sharkey MS. Inter-rater reliability of physical abuse determinations in young children with fractures. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2017; 72:140-146. [PMID: 28802910 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
As there is no "gold standard" in determining whether a fracture is caused by accident or abuse, agreement among medical providers is paramount. Using abstracted medical record data from 551 children <36months of age presenting to a pediatric emergency department, we examined the extent of agreement between specialists who evaluate children with fractures for suspected abuse. To simulate clinical scenarios, two pediatric orthopaedists and two child abuse pediatricians (CAPs) reviewed the full abstraction and imaging, whereas the two pediatric radiologists reviewed a brief history and imaging. Each physician independently rated each case using a 7-point ordinal scale designed to distinguish accidental from abusive injuries. For any discrepancy in independent ratings, the two specialists discussed the case and came to a joint rating. We analyzed 3 types of agreement: (1) within specialties using independent ratings, (2) between specialties using joint ratings, and (3) between clinicians (orthopaedists and CAPs) with more versus less experience. Agreement between pairs of raters was assessed using Cohen's weighted kappa. Orthopaedists (κ=0.78) and CAPs (κ=0.67) had substantial within-specialty agreement, while radiologists (κ=0.53) had moderate agreement. Orthopaedists and CAPs had almost perfect between-specialty agreement (κ=0.81), while agreement was much lower for orthopaedists and radiologists (κ=0.37) and CAPs and radiologists (κ=0.42). More-experienced clinicians had substantial between-specialty agreement (κ=0.80) versus less-experienced clinicians who had moderate agreement (κ=0.60). These findings suggest the level of clinical detail a physician receives and his/her experience in the field has an impact on the level of agreement when evaluating fractures in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Buesser
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Yale University School of Medicine, 800 Howard Avenue, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - John M Leventhal
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208064, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8064, USA
| | - Julie R Gaither
- Yale Center for Medical Informatics, 300 George Street, Suite 501, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Victoria Tate
- Department of Surgery, Greenville Health System, 701 Grove Road, Greenville, SC 29605, USA
| | - Daniel R Cooperman
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Yale University School of Medicine, 800 Howard Avenue, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Rebecca L Moles
- Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA
| | - Cicero T Silva
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208042, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8042, USA
| | - Lauren J Ehrlich
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208042, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8042, USA
| | - Melinda S Sharkey
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Yale University School of Medicine, 800 Howard Avenue, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Prasad T, Tully J. Late onset congenital dermal melanocytosis - 'Mongolian blue spots' confused as child abuse: Are there more lessons to be learnt? J Paediatr Child Health 2017. [PMID: 28639711 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.13608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Trupti Prasad
- Victorian Forensic Paediatric Medical Service, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanna Tully
- Victorian Forensic Paediatric Medical Service, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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The association of nonaccidental trauma with historical factors, examination findings, and diagnostic testing during the initial trauma evaluation. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2017; 82:1147-1157. [DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000001441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Ide K, Uematsu S, Tetsuhara K, Yoshimura S, Kato T, Kobayashi T. External Validation of the PECARN Head Trauma Prediction Rules in Japan. Acad Emerg Med 2017; 24:308-314. [PMID: 27862642 DOI: 10.1111/acem.13129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) head trauma prediction rules are used to assist computed tomography (CT) decision-making for children with minor head trauma. Although the PECARN rules have been validated in North America and Europe, they have not yet been validated in Asia. In Japan, there are no clinical decision rules for children with minor head trauma. The rate of head CT for children with minor head trauma in Japan is high since CT is widely accessible across the country. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the PECARN rules for identifying clinically important traumatic brain injuries (ciTBI) in children with minor head trauma in Japan. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary care pediatric hospital in Japan (30,000 patients/year). We enrolled all children younger than 18 years with minor head trauma (Glasgow Coma Scale ≥ 14) who presented to the emergency department within 24 hours of their injury between January and December 2013. We retrospectively classified the children into three risk categories according to the PECARN rules. The PECARN rules were considered negative when children were classified into the very-low-risk category. The primary outcome was considered positive when a child had ciTBI defined as head injury resulting in death, neurosurgery, intubation for > 24 hours, or hospital admission ≥ 2 nights with evidence of TBI on CT. RESULTS Among 2,208 children included in the study, 24 (1.1%) had ciTBI. Sensitivities and specificities of the PECARN rules to predict ciTBI were 85.7% (12/14; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 57.2 to 98.2) and 73.5% (572/778; 95% CI = 70.3 to 76.6), respectively, for children < 2 years old, and 100% (10/10; 95% CI = 58.7 to 100) and 73.5% (1033/1406; 95% CI = 71.0 to 75.7) for children ≥ 2 years old, respectively. There were 10 cases of physically abused children < 2 years old, and six (60%) of them had ciTBI. Also, two cases of physically abused children with ciTBI were classified as very low risk. If we did not include physically abused children, the sensitivity of the PECARN rule for children < 2 years old improved from 85.7% to 100% (8/8). CONCLUSIONS The PECARN rules were less sensitive for physically abused children, although the rules showed excellent applicability for the cohort without physical abuse. Thoughtful consideration may be needed for cases of nonaccidental trauma. Further prospective studies are required to verify the applicability of the PECARN rules for children with minor head trauma in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Ide
- Division of Critical Care Medicine National Center for Child Health and Development Tokyo Japan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine The Hospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Program SickKids Research Institute Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Satoko Uematsu
- Division of Pediatric Emergency and Transport Services National Center for Child Health and Development Tokyo Japan
| | - Kenichi Tetsuhara
- Division of Pediatric Emergency and Transport Services National Center for Child Health and Development Tokyo Japan
| | - Satoshi Yoshimura
- Department of General Pediatrics and Interdisciplinary Medicine National Center for Child Health and Development Tokyo Japan
| | - Takahiro Kato
- Division of Pediatric Emergency and Transport Services National Center for Child Health and Development Tokyo Japan
| | - Tohru Kobayashi
- Division of Clinical Research Planning Department of Development Strategy Center for Clinical Research and Development National Center for Child Health and Development Tokyo Japan
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Scafide KN, Sheridan DJ, Taylor LA, Hayat MJ. Reliability of tristimulus colourimetry in the assessment of cutaneous bruise colour. Injury 2016; 47:1258-63. [PMID: 26997134 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2016.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bruising is one of the most common types of injury clinicians observe among victims of violence and other trauma patients. However, research has shown commonly used qualitative description of cutaneous bruise colour via the naked eye is subjective and unreliable. No published work has formally evaluated the reliability of tristimulus colourimetry as an alternative for assessing bruise colour, despite its clinical and research applications in accurately assessing skin colour. The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the test-retest and inter-observer reliability of tristimulus colourimetry in the assessment of cutaneous bruise colour. METHODS Two researchers obtained repeated tristimulus colourimetry measures of cutaneous bruises with participants of diverse skin colour. Measures were obtained using the Minolta CR-400 Chomameter. Commission Internationale d'Eclairage (CIE) L*a*b* colour space was used. Data was analysed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Cronbach's alpha, and minimal detectable change (MDC) on all three L*a*b* values. RESULTS The colorimeter demonstrated excellent test-retest or intra-rater reliability (L* ICC=0.999; a* ICC=0.973; b* ICC=0.892) and inter-rater reliability (L* ICC=0.997; a* ICC=0.976; b* ICC=0.982). CONCLUSIONS With consistent placement, the tristimulus colourimetry is reliable for the objective assessment and documentation of cutaneous bruise colour for purposes of clinical practice and research. Recommendations for use in practice/research are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura A Taylor
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, United States
| | - Matthew J Hayat
- Georgia State University, School of Public Health, United States
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45
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Impact sites representing potential bruising locations associated with rearward falls in children. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 261:129-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Revised: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Campbell KA. Outcome Data Needed: Interpreting Variation in the Medical Evaluation of Child Physical Abuse. Pediatrics 2015; 136:389-91. [PMID: 26169423 PMCID: PMC9923576 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2015-0694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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The Prevalence of Bruising Among Infants in Pediatric Emergency Departments. Ann Emerg Med 2015; 67:1-8. [PMID: 26233923 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2015.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE Bruising can indicate abuse for infants. Bruise prevalence among infants in the pediatric emergency department (ED) setting is unknown. Our objective is to determine prevalence of bruising, associated chief complaints, and frequency of abuse evaluations in previously healthy infants presenting to pediatric EDs. METHODS We conducted a prospective, observational, multicenter study of infants aged 12 months or younger presenting to pediatric EDs. Structured sampling was used. Pediatric emergency medicine clinicians performed complete skin examinations to screen for bruising. Study investigators documented skin findings, date of visit, patient's age, chief complaint, and abuse evaluation. The primary outcome was prevalence of bruising. Secondary outcomes were prevalence of bruising based on chief complaint and frequency of abuse evaluation. Point estimates of bruise prevalence and differences in bruise prevalence between patient subgroups were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Bruising was identified in 88 of 2,488 infants (3.5%; 95% CI 2.9% to 4.4%). Rates of bruising for infants 5 months and younger and older than 5 months were 1.3% and 6.4%, respectively (difference 5.1%; 95% CI 3.6% to 6.8%). For infants 5 months and younger, 83% of bruising was associated with a trauma chief complaint and only 0.2% of infants presenting with a medical chief complaint had bruising. Pediatric emergency medicine clinicians obtained abuse evaluations on 23% of infants with bruising, and that rate increased to 50% for infants 5 months and younger. CONCLUSION Bruising prevalence in children 12 months and younger who were evaluated in pediatric EDs was low, increased within age strata, and was most often associated with a trauma chief complaint. Most bruised infants did not undergo an abuse evaluation.
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Abstract
Child physical abuse is an important cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality and is associated with major physical and mental health problems that can extend into adulthood. Pediatricians are in a unique position to identify and prevent child abuse, and this clinical report provides guidance to the practitioner regarding indicators and evaluation of suspected physical abuse of children. The role of the physician may include identifying abused children with suspicious injuries who present for care, reporting suspected abuse to the child protection agency for investigation, supporting families who are affected by child abuse, coordinating with other professionals and community agencies to provide immediate and long-term treatment to victimized children, providing court testimony when necessary, providing preventive care and anticipatory guidance in the office, and advocating for policies and programs that support families and protect vulnerable children.
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Wood JN, Fakeye O, Mondestin V, Rubin DM, Localio R, Feudtner C. Development of hospital-based guidelines for skeletal survey in young children with bruises. Pediatrics 2015; 135:e312-20. [PMID: 25601982 PMCID: PMC4306798 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2014-2169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop guidelines for performing an initial skeletal survey (SS) for children <24 months of age presenting with bruising in the hospital setting, combining available evidence with expert opinion. METHODS Applying the Rand/UCLA Appropriateness Method, a multispecialty panel of 10 experts relied on evidence from the literature and their own clinical expertise in rating the appropriateness of performing SS for 198 clinical scenarios characterizing children <24 months old with bruising. After a moderated discussion of initial ratings, the scenarios were revised. Panelists re-rated SS appropriateness for 219 revised scenarios. For the 136 clinical scenarios in which SS was deemed appropriate, the panel finally assessed the necessity of SS. RESULTS Panelists agreed that SS is "appropriate" for 62% (136/219) of scenarios, and "inappropriate" for children ≥ 12 months old with nonpatterned bruising on bony prominences. Panelists agreed that SS is "necessary" for 95% (129/136) of the appropriate scenarios. SS was deemed necessary for infants <6 months old regardless of bruise location, with rare exceptions, but the necessity of SS in older children depends on bruise location. According to the panelists, bruising on the cheek, eye area, ear, neck, upper arm, upper leg, hand, foot, torso, buttock, or genital area necessitates SS in children <12 months. CONCLUSIONS The appropriateness and necessity of SS in children presenting for care to the hospital setting with bruising, as determined by a diverse panel of experts, depends on age of the child and location of bruising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne N. Wood
- Division of General Pediatrics and PolicyLab, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics and,Departments of Pediatrics and
| | - Oludolapo Fakeye
- Division of General Pediatrics and PolicyLab, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Valerie Mondestin
- Division of General Pediatrics and PolicyLab, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - David M. Rubin
- Division of General Pediatrics and PolicyLab, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics and,Departments of Pediatrics and
| | - Russell Localio
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Chris Feudtner
- Division of General Pediatrics and PolicyLab, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics and,Departments of Pediatrics and
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