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Canty KW, Keogh A, Rispoli J. Neuroimaging considerations in abusive head trauma. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2024; 50:101140. [PMID: 38964816 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2024.101140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
This focused review on abusive head trauma describes the injuries to the head, brain and/or spine of an infant or young child from inflicted trauma and their neuroimaging correlates. Accurate recognition and diagnosis of abusive head trauma is paramount to prevent repeated injury, provide timely treatment, and ensure that accidental or underlying medical contributors have been considered. In this article, we aim to discuss the various findings on neuroimaging that have been associated with AHT, compared to those that are more consistent with accidental injuries or with underlying medical causes that may also be on the differential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine W Canty
- Child Protection Program, Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
| | - Abigail Keogh
- Child Protection Program, Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Joanne Rispoli
- Division of Neuroradiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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Chou CC, Hou JY, Chou IJ, Lan SY, Kong SS, Huang MH, Weng YC, Lin YY, Kuo CY, Hsieh MY, Chou ML, Hung PC, Wang HS, Lin KL, Wang YS, Lin JJ. Electroencephalogram pattern predicting neurological outcomes of children with seizures secondary to abusive head trauma. Pediatr Neonatol 2024; 65:249-254. [PMID: 38012896 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2023.05.012] [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: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical presentations of abusive head trauma can abruptly worsen, so the occurrence of seizures and changes of EEG can be variable according to patients' conditions. Since the changes of EEG background waves reflect the cortical function of children, we aimed to find out whether the timing of EEG background, epileptiform discharges and seizure patterns were associated with the outcomes of patients with AHT. MATERIAL AND METHODS Using seizure type and acute stage electroencephalographic (EEG) characteristics to assess adverse neurological outcomes in children with seizures secondary to abusive head trauma (AHT). Children who were hospitalized with AHT at a tertiary referral hospital from October 2000 to April 2010 were evaluated retrospectively. A total of 50 children below 6 years of age admitted due to AHT were included. KOSCHI outcome scale was used to evaluate the primary outcome and neurological impairment was used as secondary outcome after 6 months discharge. RESULTS Children with apnea, cardiac arrest, reverse blood flow and skull fracture in clinic had a higher mortality rate even in the no-seizure group (3/5 [60%] vs. 3/45 [6.7%], odds ratio [OR] = 11; 95% CI = 2.3-52; p = 0.025). Seizure occurrence reduced mostly at the second day after admission in seizure groups; but children with persistent seizures for 1 week showed poor neurological outcomes. The occurrence of initial seizure was frequency associated with younger age; focal seizure, diffuse cortical dysfunction in acute-stage EEG, and low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score were significantly related to poor outcomes after 6 months. Diffuse cortical dysfunction was also associated with motor, speech, and cognitive dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS Diffuse cortical dysfunction in acute-stage EEG combined with low GCS score and focal seizure may related to poor outcomes and neurological dysfunctions in children with AHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Che Chou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Yin Hou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - I-Jun Chou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Yun Lan
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, New Taipei City Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Sing Kong
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Man-Hsu Huang
- Department of Pathology, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chieh Weng
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Yu Lin
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yen Kuo
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Ying Hsieh
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Min-Liang Chou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Cheng Hung
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Shyong Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Lin Lin
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shan Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jainn-Jim Lin
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linko, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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Blackwell LS, Grell R. Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Impact on the Developing Brain. Pediatr Neurol 2023; 148:215-222. [PMID: 37652817 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health concern impacting millions of children and adolescents each year. Experiencing a brain injury during key critical periods of brain development can affect the normal formation of brain networks that are responsible for a range of complex neurocognitive outcomes. In addition, there are multiple pre- and postinjury factors that influence the trajectory of recovery and outcomes. In this review, we will focus on the current state of the literature within pediatric TBI; systematically review the available research on developmental aspects of TBI in children, focusing on the pathophysiology of the injury and its impact on the developing brain; and highlight knowledge gaps for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Grell
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Liu YC, Chen IC, Yin HL, Wu YH, Lo SH, Liang WC, Jaw TS, Dai ZK, Hsu JH. Comparisons of characteristics and outcome between abusive head trauma and non-abusive head trauma in a pediatric intensive care unit. J Formos Med Assoc 2023; 122:1183-1188. [PMID: 37268475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2023.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of death in infants with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Early recognition of AHT is important for improving outcomes, but it can be challenging due to its similar presentations with non-abusive head trauma (nAHT). This study aims to compare clinical presentations and outcomes between infants with AHT and nAHT, and to identify the risk factors for poor outcomes of AHT. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed infants of TBI in our pediatric intensive care unit from January 2014 to December 2020. Clinical manifestations and outcomes were compared between patients with AHT and nAHT. Risk factors for poor outcomes in AHT patients were also analyzed. RESULTS 60 patients were enrolled for this analysis, including 18 of AHT (30%) and 42 of nAHT (70%). Compared with those with nAHT, patients with AHT were more likely to have conscious change, seizures, limb weakness, and respiratory failure, but with a fewer incidence of skull fractures. Additionally, clinical outcomes of AHT patients were worse, with more cases undergoing neurosurgery, higher Pediatric Overall Performance Category score at discharge, and more anti-epileptic drug (AED) use after discharge. For AHT patients, conscious change is an independent risk factor for a composite poor outcome of mortality, ventilator dependence, or AED use (OR = 21.9, P = 0.04) CONCLUSION: AHT has a worse outcome than nAHT. Conscious change, seizures and limb weaknesses but not skull fractures are more common in AHT. Conscious change is both an early reminder of AHT and a risk factor for its poor outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ching Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - I-Chen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ling Yin
- Department of Clinical Forensic Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hsien Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Hsing Lo
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chen Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Twei-Shiun Jaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Medical Imaging, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Zen-Kong Dai
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jong-Hau Hsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Doswell A, Killough E, Zinkus TP, Sherman A, Anderst J. Examining diagnostic variability among pediatric subspecialists using case examples of infant head injury. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 144:106371. [PMID: 37536244 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although there is research regarding the diagnosis and timing of abusive head trauma, there remains practice variation among pediatric subspecialists. OBJECTIVES To examine diagnostic variability among pediatric subspecialists using case examples of infant head injury. Secondary objectives were timing variability among subspecialists, and diagnostic and timing variability among Child Abuse Pediatricians (CAPs). PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Pediatric subspecialists were recruited from Child Abuse Pediatrics, Hospital Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care, and Neurosurgery to complete a research instrument. Participants qualified for the study if they evaluated at least 1 case of possible abusive head trauma during their career. METHODS This multi-institutional, mixed-methods study used a research instrument with 4 case examples of infant head injury: severe retinal hemorrhages (RH), mass-effect subdural hemorrhage (SDH), SDH membrane formation, and sepsis. The response selected by most CAPs was reference and compared across subspecialties and among CAPs using Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. A Bonferroni correction (p < 0.01) was used for subspecialty comparisons. RESULTS There were 288 participants who completed at least 1 case example. Diagnostic variability was observed in all case examples. Significantly fewer Hospital Medicine (34.9 % vs. 57.9 %, p < 0.01), Emergency Medicine (28.0 % vs. 57.9 %, p < 0.0001), and Neurosurgery (24.0 % vs. 57.9 %, p < 0.01) participants selected the reference response for the mass-effect SDH case example. Timing variability was statistically significant for all case examples (p < 0.01). Significantly fewer CAPs aged 44-64 years selected the reference response for timing (p < 0.01) for the severe RH case example. CONCLUSIONS Additional peer review processes and consensus guidelines for challenging issues in abusive head trauma may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Doswell
- Division of Child Abuse and Neglect, Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, United States of America.
| | - Emily Killough
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Kansas City, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States of America.
| | - Timothy P Zinkus
- Division of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Kansas City, University of Missouri-Kansas City, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States of America.
| | - Ashley Sherman
- Division of Health Services and Outcomes Research, Children's Mercy Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States of America.
| | - James Anderst
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Kansas City, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, United States of America
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Geoghegan AR, Shouldice M, Mireskandari K, Smith JN. Subdural hemorrhages and severe retinal hemorrhages in a short fall with a rotational component. J AAPOS 2023; 27:222-224. [PMID: 37307907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2023.04.011] [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] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We present the case of a 5-month-old referred for child abuse investigation with subdural hemorrhages and extensive retinal hemorrhages following a short fall from a swivel chair seen on video footage. Subdural hemorrhages with extensive retinal hemorrhages are not typically seen as the result of short household falls. Reviewing the footage, contributing factors may have included increased rotational and deceleration forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisling R Geoghegan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michelle Shouldice
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kamiar Mireskandari
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer N Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.
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Franklin D, Tiwari C, Zamora C, Barnett R, Woolard A, Hung SC, Berkoff M, Quinsey C. Combined rapid sequence MRI protocol and skull radiography as an alternative to head CT in the evaluation of abusive head trauma in children: a pilot study. Neurosurg Rev 2023; 46:175. [PMID: 37450200 DOI: 10.1007/s10143-023-02084-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of our pilot study was to compare the performance of the RS-MRI protocol combined with skull radiography versus CT for the detection of skull fractures, scalp hematomas, and intracranial hemorrhage in patients with abusive head trauma (AHT). Additionally, our study aimed to determine whether the presence of scalp hematoma predicts concurrent skull fracture. We conducted a pilot study through retrospective chart review of 24 patients between ages 0 and 15 months who experienced AHT and who received CT, MRI, and skull radiography between May 2020 and August 2021. Two blinded board certified neuroradiologists reviewed the skull radiographs alongside the rapid trauma MRI. Their impressions were documented and compared with findings derived from CT. Combination imaging detected ten out of the 12 skull fractures noted on CT (sensitivity 83.3%, specificity 100%, p=0.48). RS-MRI detected 15 out of the 16 intracranial hemorrhages detected by CT (sensitivity 93.75%, p >0.9). When scalp hematoma was detected on RS-MRI, nine out of the 12 had associated skull fractures when reviewed by radiologist 1 (sensitivity 75%, specificity 100%, p=0.22), and seven out of the 12 had associated skull fractures when reviewed by radiologist 2 (sensitivity 58%, specificity 92%, p=0.25). In pediatric patients with suspected AHT, we found that RS-MRI combined with skull radiographs was not significantly different than CT for the detection of skull fractures, scalp hematomas, and intracranial hemorrhage. This combination has the potential to replace the use of CT as a screening tool for abusive head trauma, while avoiding the risks of sedation often required for routine MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deveney Franklin
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- University of North Carolina Department of Neurosurgery, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Chhitij Tiwari
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina Department of Neurosurgery, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Carlos Zamora
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina Department of Radiology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Randaline Barnett
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina Department of Neurosurgery, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Alice Woolard
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sheng-Che Hung
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina Department of Radiology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Molly Berkoff
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina Department of Pediatrics, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Carolyn Quinsey
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina Department of Neurosurgery, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Di Fazio N, Delogu G, Morena D, Cipolloni L, Scopetti M, Mazzilli S, Frati P, Fineschi V. New Insights into the Diagnosis and Age Determination of Retinal Hemorrhages from Abusive Head Trauma: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:1722. [PMID: 37238204 PMCID: PMC10217069 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13101722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Head trauma represents the first cause of death in abused children, but diagnostic knowledge is still limited. The characteristic findings of abusive head trauma (AHT) are retinal hemorrhages (RH) and additional ocular findings, including optic nerve hemorrhages (ONH). However, etiological diagnosis must be cautious. (2) Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review (PRISMA) standards were employed, and the research focus was the current gold standard in the diagnosis and timing of abusive RH. (3) Results: Sixteen articles were included for qualitative synthesis. The importance of an early instrumental ophthalmological assessment emerged in subjects with a high suspicion of AHT, with attention to the localization, laterality, and morphology of the findings. Sometimes it is possible to observe the fundus even in deceased subjects, but the current techniques of choice consist of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography, also useful for the timing of the lesion, the autopsy, and the histological investigation, especially if performed with the use of immunohistochemical reactants against erythrocytes, leukocytes, and ischemic nerve cells. (4) Conclusions: The present review has made it possible to build an operational framework for the diagnosis and timing of cases of abusive retinal damage, but further research in the field is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Di Fazio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Giuseppe Delogu
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Donato Morena
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Matteo Scopetti
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Sara Mazzilli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (N.D.F.); (G.D.); (D.M.); (S.M.); (P.F.)
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O'Hara MA, Valvano TJ, Kashyap M, Daly JC, Bachim AN, Care MM, Egge MK, Kondis JS, Lenane AM, Maddocks ABR, Metz JB, Nielsen AK, Reeder KN, Ruda MT, Segal R, Sugarman JM, Weeks K, Oral R. Understanding Bilateral Skull Fractures in Infancy: A Retrospective Multicenter Case Review. Pediatr Emerg Care 2023; 39:329-334. [PMID: 35413039 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002704] [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: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bilateral skull fractures in infancy often raise suspicion for abuse. Nevertheless, literature suggests that they may occur accidentally. However, empiric data are lacking. OBJECTIVE This multicenter retrospective review aimed to characterize bilateral skull fractures in a large sample. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Medical records for infants younger than 24 months with bilateral skull fractures involving hospital consultation with a child abuse pediatrician (CAP) were reviewed from 2005 to 2020 at 13 nationally represented institutions. METHODS Standardized data collection across institutions included historical features, fracture characteristics, and additional injuries, as well as the CAP's determination of accident versus abuse. Pooled data were analyzed for descriptive and bivariate analyses. RESULTS For 235 cases, 141 were accidental, and 94 abuse. The majority occurred in young infants, and a history of a fall was common in 70% of cases. More than 80% involved both parietal bones. Bilateral simple linear fractures were more common in accidental cases, 79% versus 35%, whereas a complex fracture was more frequent in abuse cases, 55% versus 21% ( P < 0.001). Almost two thirds of accidental cases showed approximation of the fractures at the sagittal suture, compared with one third of abuse cases ( P < 0.001). Whereas focal intracranial hemorrhage was seen in 43% of all cases, diffuse intracranial hemorrhage was seen more in abuse cases (45%) than accidents (11%). Skin trauma was more common in abusive than accidental injury (67% vs 17%, P < 0.001), as were additional fractures on skeletal survey (49% vs 3%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS A fall history was common in bilateral skull fractures deemed accidental by a CAP. Most accidental cases involved young infants with biparietal simple linear fractures, without skin trauma or additional fractures. A skeletal survey may aid in the determination of accidental or abusive injury for unwitnessed events resulting in bilateral skull fractures in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas J Valvano
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Marisha Kashyap
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Jennie C Daly
- Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, Loma Linda, CA
| | - Angela N Bachim
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX
| | - Marguerite M Care
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Melissa K Egge
- Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, Loma Linda, CA
| | - Jamie S Kondis
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, MO
| | - Ann M Lenane
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Alexis B R Maddocks
- Department of Radiology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - James B Metz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Vermont Children's Hospital, Burlington, VT
| | - Anne K Nielsen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, Iowa City, IA
| | - Kristen N Reeder
- Department of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Michelle T Ruda
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX
| | - Rachel Segal
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, Iowa City, IA
| | - Jacqueline M Sugarman
- Department of Pediatrics, Kentucky Children's Hospital, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Kerri Weeks
- Department of Pediatrics, Wesley Children's Hospital, Wichita, KS
| | - Resmiye Oral
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH
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10
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Biswas A, Krishnan P, Albalkhi I, Mankad K, Shroff M. Imaging of Abusive Head Trauma in Children. Neuroimaging Clin N Am 2023; 33:357-373. [PMID: 36965952 DOI: 10.1016/j.nic.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we describe relevant anatomy, mechanisms of injury, and imaging findings of abusive head trauma (AHT). We also briefly address certain mimics of AHT, controversies, pearls, and pitfalls. Concepts of injury, its evolution, and complex nature of certain cases are highlighted with the help of case vignettes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asthik Biswas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Neuroradiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N3JH, UK.
| | - Pradeep Krishnan
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ibrahem Albalkhi
- Department of Neuroradiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N3JH, UK; College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Al Takhassousi، Al Zahrawi Street interconnecting with, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- Department of Neuroradiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N3JH, UK; UCL GOS Institute of Child Health
| | - Manohar Shroff
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Raissaki M, Adamsbaum C, Argyropoulou MI, Choudhary AK, Jeanes A, Mankad K, Mannes I, Van Rijn RR, Offiah AC. Benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces and subdural collections-when to evaluate for abuse. Pediatr Radiol 2023; 53:752-767. [PMID: 36856756 PMCID: PMC10027800 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-023-05611-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
In infants without a history of trauma, subdural haemorrhages should raise the concern for an abusive head injury, particularly when they are associated with bridging vein clotting/rupture or with septations. However, non-haemorrhagic, fluid-appearing subdural collections (also called hygromas) may also be the result of abuse. Subdural collections have also been uncommonly observed in patients with benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces (BESS) and a few large-scale studies accurately investigate the incidence and the significance. Currently, there is a wide variation of practices in children with BESS and subdural collections. Due to the social risks associated with abuse evaluation and the perceived risk of radiation exposure, there might be a reluctance to fully evaluate these children in some centres. The diagnosis of physical abuse cannot be substantiated nor safely excluded in infants with BESS and subdural collection(s), without investigation for concomitant traumatic findings. The exact prevalence of occult injuries and abuse in these infants is unknown. In macrocephalic infants with subdural collections and imaging features of BESS, thorough investigations for abuse are warranted and paediatricians should consider performing full skeletal surveys even when fundoscopy, social work consult, and detailed clinical evaluation are unremarkable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Raissaki
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, Crete, Greece.
| | - Catherine Adamsbaum
- Emeritus Pediatric Radiologist, Faculty of Medicine, Paris-Saclay University, 63 Rue Gabriel Péri, 94270, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Maria I Argyropoulou
- Department of Clinical Radiology and Imaging, Medical School, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Arabinda K Choudhary
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Annmarie Jeanes
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Leeds Children's Hospital, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Inès Mannes
- Pediatric Radiology Department, AP-HP, Bicêtre Hospital, Le Kremlin‑Bicêtre, France
| | - Rick R Van Rijn
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Emma Children's Hospital, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Amaka C Offiah
- Department of Oncology & Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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12
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Nikam RM, Kecskemethy HH, Kandula VVR, Averill LW, Langhans SA, Yue X. Abusive Head Trauma Animal Models: Focus on Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:4463. [PMID: 36901893 PMCID: PMC10003453 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) is a serious traumatic brain injury and the leading cause of death in children younger than 2 years. The development of experimental animal models to simulate clinical AHT cases is challenging. Several animal models have been designed to mimic the pathophysiological and behavioral changes in pediatric AHT, ranging from lissencephalic rodents to gyrencephalic piglets, lambs, and non-human primates. These models can provide helpful information for AHT, but many studies utilizing them lack consistent and rigorous characterization of brain changes and have low reproducibility of the inflicted trauma. Clinical translatability of animal models is also limited due to significant structural differences between developing infant human brains and the brains of animals, and an insufficient ability to mimic the effects of long-term degenerative diseases and to model how secondary injuries impact the development of the brain in children. Nevertheless, animal models can provide clues on biochemical effectors that mediate secondary brain injury after AHT including neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, reactive oxygen toxicity, axonal damage, and neuronal death. They also allow for investigation of the interdependency of injured neurons and analysis of the cell types involved in neuronal degeneration and malfunction. This review first focuses on the clinical challenges in diagnosing AHT and describes various biomarkers in clinical AHT cases. Then typical preclinical biomarkers such as microglia and astrocytes, reactive oxygen species, and activated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in AHT are described, and the value and limitations of animal models in preclinical drug discovery for AHT are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul M. Nikam
- Diagnostic & Research PET/MR Center, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Heidi H. Kecskemethy
- Diagnostic & Research PET/MR Center, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Vinay V. R. Kandula
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Lauren W. Averill
- Diagnostic & Research PET/MR Center, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Sigrid A. Langhans
- Diagnostic & Research PET/MR Center, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
- Nemours Biomedical Research, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Xuyi Yue
- Diagnostic & Research PET/MR Center, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
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13
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Identifying abusive head trauma and its mimics: diagnostic nuances. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:2311-2315. [PMID: 36690736 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-05845-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the most serious injury inflicted to the nervous system of neonate an infant with a high incidence of disabilities. The authors present two cases in which the initial manifestations and neurologic status were misinterpreted and stress that clinical presentation and imaging can be variable and confuse the examiner. DISCUSSION Subdural hemorrhage (SDH) in this age group raises high suspicion of non-accidental trauma but have been reported in other situations such as several bleeding disorders. Although rare, hematological diseases should be considered when other data of maltreatment are lacking. CONCLUSION Differential diagnosis is important to avoid underdiagnosing AHT and to prevent morbidity if a pre-existing hematological disease is misdiagnosed.
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14
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Snelling PJ, Aruljoe Thanasingam A, Jones P, Connors J. Comparison of abusive head trauma versus non-inflicted subdural haematoma in infants: A retrospective cohort study. Emerg Med Australas 2022; 34:968-975. [PMID: 35661408 PMCID: PMC9796578 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the characteristics of subdural haematoma (SDH) in children under the age of 2 years, between inflicted, otherwise known as abusive head trauma (AHT), and non-inflicted aetiologies. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of 37 cases of SDH in children under the age of 2 years presenting to the ED at an Australian tertiary children's hospital between January 2009 and December 2012 and been assessed by the Child Protection Unit. SDH aetiology was classified into AHT and non-inflicted groups, based on child protection interagency outcome. These groups were compared to determine clinical associations with AHT. RESULTS Of the 37 infants with SDH, 20 cases were deemed due to AHT, whereas 17 cases were determined to be non-inflicted SDH (15 cases due to accidental trauma and two cases due to congenital benign enlargement of the subarachnoid space). SDH due to AHT was associated with antenatal maternal drug use, previous Department of Child Safety involvement, delayed presentation, history of seizures, floppiness or altered level of consciousness; extracranial findings of fractures, bruising or retinal haemorrhages; radiological findings of >5 mm depth, bilateral, inter-hemispheric blood, posterior fossa blood and diffusion restriction; and outcomes of death or permanent disability. Non-inflicted SDH was associated with witnessed injury, falls and scalp haematoma on imaging. CONCLUSIONS Infant SDH due to AHT accounts for high mortality and morbidity. Early identification of these patients in the ED with referral to specialised units that investigate for potential child abuse is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Snelling
- Emergency DepartmentGold Coast University HospitalGold CoastQueenslandAustralia,Child Protection UnitMater Children's HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia,School of Medicine and DentistryGriffith UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia,Child Health Research CentreThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | | | - Philip Jones
- Emergency DepartmentGold Coast University HospitalGold CoastQueenslandAustralia,School of Medicine and DentistryGriffith UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia,Emergency and Trauma CentreRoyal Brisbane and Women's HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Jan Connors
- Child Protection UnitMater Children's HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia,Child Protection and Forensic Medical ServiceQueensland Children's HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
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15
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Carpenter SL, Abshire TC, Killough E, Anderst JD. Evaluating for Suspected Child Abuse: Conditions That Predispose to Bleeding. Pediatrics 2022; 150:189508. [PMID: 36120799 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-059277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Child abuse might be suspected when children present with cutaneous bruising, intracranial hemorrhage, or other manifestations of bleeding. In these cases, it is necessary to consider medical conditions that predispose to easy bleeding or bruising. When evaluating for the possibility of bleeding disorders and other conditions that predispose to hemorrhage, it is important for pediatricians to consider the child's presenting history, medical history, and physical examination findings before initiating a laboratory investigation. Many medical conditions can predispose to easy bleeding. Before ordering laboratory tests for a disease, it is useful to understand the biochemical basis and clinical presentation of the disorder, condition prevalence, and test characteristics. This technical report reviews the major medical conditions that predispose to bruising or bleeding and should be considered when evaluating for abusive injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L Carpenter
- Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Children's Mercy Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Thomas C Abshire
- Senior Investigator Emeritus, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Medicine, and the CTSI of Southeast Wisconsin, Emeritus, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Emily Killough
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Children's Mercy Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - James D Anderst
- Division of Child Adversity and Resilience, Children's Mercy Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
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16
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Lãzãrescu AM, Benichi S, Blauwblomme T, Beccaria K, Bourgeois M, Roux CJ, Vergnaud E, Montmayeur J, Meyer P, Cohen JF, Chalumeau M, Blangis F, Orliaguet G. Abusive Head Trauma in Infants During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Paris Metropolitan Area. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2226182. [PMID: 36040743 PMCID: PMC9428740 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.26182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance The COVID-19 pandemic and the containment and mitigation measures taken were feared to be associated with increased child abuse. Objective To investigate the trend of abusive head trauma (AHT) incidence and severity in infants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design, Setting, and Participants In a time-series analysis of a longitudinal, population-based, cohort study, all consecutive cases of AHT in infants younger than 12 months old referred between January 2017 and December 2021 to Necker Hospital for Sick Children, the single regional pediatric neurosurgery center for the Paris metropolitan area, were included. AHT was defined as 1 or more subdural hemorrhage and a positive multidisciplinary evaluation after a social, clinical, biological, and radiological workup. Data were analyzed from January to March 2022. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was the monthly incidence of AHT, which was analyzed using Poisson regression modeling. Secondary outcomes included mortality and severe morbidity and were studied with logistic and linear regressions. The monthly incidence of neurosurgical interventions for hydrocephalus was used as a control series. Results Among the 99 included infants with AHT (median [IQR] age, 4 [3-6] months; 64 boys [65%]), 86 of 99 (87%) had bridging vein thrombosis, 74 of 99 (75%) had retinal hemorrhages, 23 of 72 (32%) had fractures, 26 of 99 (26%) had status epilepticus, 20 of 99 (20%) had skin injuries, 53 of 99 (54%) underwent neurosurgical interventions, and 13 of 99 (13%) died. Compared with the prepandemic period (2017-2019), AHT incidence was stable in 2020 (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.59-1.77) and then significantly increased in 2021 (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.23-2.99). The severity of AHT worsened in 2021 in terms of mortality (odds ratio 9.39; 95% CI, 1.88-47.00). Other secondary outcomes and the control series were not significantly modified. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, a marked increase in AHT incidence and severity occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Paris metropolitan area. These results suggest the need for clinical awareness and preventive actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Marilena Lãzãrescu
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Sandro Benichi
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Blauwblomme
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Kévin Beccaria
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Marie Bourgeois
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Charles-Joris Roux
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Estelle Vergnaud
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Juliette Montmayeur
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Meyer
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jérémie F. Cohen
- Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics, Université Paris Cité, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Medicale, Paris, France
- Child Protection Unit, Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Martin Chalumeau
- Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics, Université Paris Cité, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Medicale, Paris, France
- Child Protection Unit, Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Flora Blangis
- Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team, Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics, Université Paris Cité, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Medicale, Paris, France
- Child Protection Unit, Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Gilles Orliaguet
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Unit EA7323 Evaluation of Therapeutics and Pharmacology in Perinatality and Pediatrics, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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17
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Ferguson NM, Rebsamen S, Field AS, Guerrero JM, Rosario BL, Broman AT, Rathouz PJ, Bell MJ, Alexander AL, Ferrazzano PA. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Infants with Severe Traumatic Brain Injury and Associations with Abusive Head Trauma. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9071092. [PMID: 35884076 PMCID: PMC9322188 DOI: 10.3390/children9071092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Young children with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) have frequently been excluded from studies due to age and/or mechanism of injury. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is now frequently being utilized to detect parenchymal injuries and early cerebral edema. We sought to assess MRI findings in infants with severe TBI, and to determine the association between specific MRI findings and mechanisms of injury, including abusive head trauma (AHT). MRI scans performed within the first 30 days after injury were collected and coded according to NIH/NINDS Common Data Elements (CDEs) for Neuroimaging in subjects age < 2 years old with severe TBI enrolled in the Approaches and Decisions in Acute Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury Trial. Demographics and injury characteristics were analyzed. A total of 81 children were included from ADAPT sites with MRI scans. Median age was 0.77 years and 57% were male. Most common MRI finding was ischemia, present in 57/81 subjects (70%), in a median of 7 brain regions per subject. Contusion 46/81 (57%) and diffuse axonal injury (DAI) 36/81 (44.4%) subjects followed. Children were dichotomized based on likelihood of AHT with 43/81 subjects classified as AHT. Ischemia was found to be significantly associated with AHT (p = 0.001) and “inflicted” injury mechanism (p = 0.0003). In conclusion, the most common intracerebral injury seen on MRI of infants with severe TBI was ischemia, followed by contusion and DAI. Ischemia was associated with AHT, and ischemia affecting > 4 brain regions was predictive of AHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Miller Ferguson
- Department of Pediatrics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA;
| | - Susan Rebsamen
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA; (S.R.); (A.S.F.)
| | - Aaron S. Field
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53792, USA; (S.R.); (A.S.F.)
| | - Jose M. Guerrero
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA; (J.M.G.); (A.L.A.)
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Waisman Brain Imaging Laboratory, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Bedda L. Rosario
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
| | - Aimee T. Broman
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA;
| | - Paul J. Rathouz
- Department of Population Health, University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, Austin, TX 78712, USA;
| | - Michael J. Bell
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA;
| | - Andrew L. Alexander
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA; (J.M.G.); (A.L.A.)
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Waisman Brain Imaging Laboratory, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Peter A. Ferrazzano
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA; (J.M.G.); (A.L.A.)
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-608-265-4839
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18
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Hymel KP, Boos SC, Armijo-Garcia V, Musick M, Weeks K, Haney SB, Marinello M, Herman BE, Frazier TN, Carroll CL, Even K, Wang M. An analysis of physicians' diagnostic reasoning regarding pediatric abusive head trauma. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 129:105666. [PMID: 35567958 PMCID: PMC10724711 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physician diagnoses of abusive head trauma (AHT) have been criticized for circular reasoning and over-reliance on a "triad" of findings. Absent a gold standard, analyses that apply restrictive reference standards for AHT and non-AHT could serve to confirm or refute these criticisms. OBJECTIVES To compare clinical presentations and injuries in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. witnessed non-AHT, and with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. physician diagnosed AHT not witnessed/admitted. To measure the triad's AHT test performance in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. witnessed non-AHT. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Acutely head injured patients <3 years hospitalized for intensive care across 18 sites between 2010 and 2021. METHODS Secondary analyses of existing, combined, cross-sectional datasets. Probability values and odds ratios were used to identify and characterize differences. Test performance measures included sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. RESULTS Compared to patients with witnessed non-AHT (n = 100), patients with witnessed/admitted AHT (n = 58) presented more frequently with respiratory compromise (OR 2.94, 95% CI: 1.50-5.75); prolonged encephalopathy (OR 5.23, 95% CI: 2.51-10.89); torso, ear, or neck bruising (OR 11.87, 95% CI: 4.48-31.48); bilateral subdural hemorrhages (OR 8.21, 95% CI: 3.94-17.13); diffuse brain hypoxia, ischemia, or swelling (OR 6.51, 95% CI: 3.06-13.02); and dense, extensive retinal hemorrhages (OR 7.59, 95% CI: 2.85-20.25). All differences were statistically significant (p ≤ .001). No significant differences were observed in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT (n = 58) vs. patients diagnosed with AHT not witnessed/admitted (n = 438). The triad demonstrated AHT specificity and positive predictive value ≥0.96. CONCLUSIONS The observed differences in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. witnessed non-AHT substantiate prior reports. The complete absence of differences in patients with witnessed/admitted AHT vs. physician diagnosed AHT not witnessed/admitted supports an impression that physicians apply diagnostic reasoning informed by knowledge of previously reported injury patterns. Concern for abuse is justified in patients who present with "the triad."
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Affiliation(s)
- Kent P Hymel
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, 600 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| | - Stephen C Boos
- Department of Pediatrics, UMass Chan Medical School-Baystate Health, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA 01199, USA.
| | - Veronica Armijo-Garcia
- University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Matthew Musick
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Kerri Weeks
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Kansas School of Medicine, 3243 East Murdoch, Wichita, KS 67208, USA
| | - Suzanne B Haney
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, 8200 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68114, USA.
| | - Mark Marinello
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU, 1250 East Marshall Street, Richmond, VA 23219, USA.
| | - Bruce E Herman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Primary Children's Hospital, 100 North Mario Capecchie Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA.
| | - Terra N Frazier
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
| | - Christopher L Carroll
- Department of Pediatrics, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106, USA.
| | - Katelyn Even
- Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, 600 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, 700 HMC Crescent Road, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
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19
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Sayrs LW, Ortiz JB, Notrica DM, Kirsch L, Kelly C, Stottlemyre R, Cohen A, Misra S, Green TR, Adelson PD, Lifshitz J, Rowe RK. Intimate Partner Violence, Clinical Indications, and Other Family Risk Factors Associated With Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP6785-NP6812. [PMID: 33092447 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520967151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Over half of fatal pediatric traumatic brain injuries are estimated to be the result of physical abuse, i.e., abusive head trauma (AHT). Although intimate partner violence (IPV) is a well-established risk for child maltreatment, little is known about IPV as an associated risk factor specifically for AHT. We performed a single-institution, retrospective review of all patients (0-17 years) diagnosed at a Level 1 pediatric trauma center with head trauma who had been referred to an in-hospital child protection team for suspicion of AHT between 2010 and 2016. Data on patient demographics, hospitalization, injury, family characteristics, sociobehavioral characteristics, physical examination, laboratory findings, imaging, discharge, and forensic determination of AHT were extracted from the institution's forensic registry. Descriptive statistics (mean, median), chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare patients with fatal head injuries to patients with nonfatal head injuries by clinical characteristics, family characteristics, and forensic determination. Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios for the presence of IPV as an associated risk of AHT while controlling for other clinical and family factors. Of 804 patients with suspicion for AHT in the forensic registry, there were 240 patients with a forensic determination of AHT; 42 injuries were fatal. There were 101 families with a reported history of IPV; 64.4% of patients in families with reported IPV were <12 months of age. IPV was associated with a twofold increase in the risk of AHT (Exp(β) = 2.3 [p = .02]). This study confirmed IPV was an associated risk factor for AHT in a single institution cohort of pediatric patients with both fatal and nonfatal injuries. Identifying IPV along with other family factors may improve detection and surveillance of AHT in medical settings and help reduce injury, disability, and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois W Sayrs
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - J Bryce Ortiz
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - David M Notrica
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Lisa Kirsch
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Cara Kelly
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Arizona State University School of Social Work, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Aaron Cohen
- Valleywise Health Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Shivani Misra
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Tabitha R Green
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - P David Adelson
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Jonathan Lifshitz
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Phoenix Veteran Affairs Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Rachel K Rowe
- Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Phoenix Veteran Affairs Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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20
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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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21
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Park YS. Complex Pathophysiology of Abusive Head Trauma with Poor Neurological Outcome in Infants. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2022; 65:385-396. [PMID: 35468708 PMCID: PMC9082116 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2021.0289] [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: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) in infants, especially acute subdural hematoma, has an extremely poor outcome. The most decisive and important finding is the appearance of a widespread low-density area on head computed tomography. This phenomenon was traditionally thought to be caused by cerebral ischemia. However, many other pathophysiological abnormalities have been found to be intricately involved. Recent studies have found that status epilepticus and hyperperfusion injures are the major causes. Another serious problem associated with AHT is cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA). Many infants are reported to visit to the hospital with CPA, and its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. This paper examines the background of these pathological conditions and associated factors and elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms resulting in poor outcomes in AHT. In addition to the intensity of assault on the head, the peculiar pathophysiological characteristics in infants, as well as the social background specific to child abuse, are found to be associated with poor outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Soo Park
- Department of Neurosurgery and Children's Medical Center, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
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22
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Caré MM. Parenchymal Insults in Abuse—A Potential Key to Diagnosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12040955. [PMID: 35454003 PMCID: PMC9029348 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12040955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Subdural hemorrhage is a key imaging finding in cases of abusive head trauma and one that many radiologists and radiology trainees become familiar with during their years of training. Although it may prove to be a marker of trauma in a young child or infant that presents without a history of injury, the parenchymal insults in these young patients more often lead to the debilitating and sometimes devastating outcomes observed in this young population. It is important to recognize these patterns of parenchymal injuries and how they may differ from the imaging findings in other cases of traumatic injury in young children. In addition, these parenchymal insults may serve as another significant, distinguishing feature when making the medical diagnosis of abusive head injury while still considering alternative diagnoses, including accidental injury. Therefore, as radiologists, we must strive to look beyond the potential cranial injury or subdural hemorrhage for the sometimes more subtle but significant parenchymal insults in abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite M. Caré
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA;
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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23
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Lee SSJ, Manivel V, Vignakaran S, Hochholzer K, De Alwis C, Espinoza D, Teo SSS. Documentation of paediatric head injuries in a mixed metropolitan emergency department. Emerg Med Australas 2022; 34:738-743. [PMID: 35384296 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Head injuries are a common presentation of children to Australian EDs. Healthcare documentation is an important tool for enhancing patient care. In our study, we aimed to assess the adequacy of paediatric head injury documentation in a mixed ED. METHODS A retrospective analysis of presentations to a mixed ED between 2017 and 2018. Children aged <16 years old with a primary diagnosis of head injury were included. Documentation items based on local head injury guidelines were assessed in both medical and nursing documentation. We compared cases aged <1 and ≥1 year. RESULTS There were 427 presentations that met the case definition. Medical documentation was present in 422 cases and nursing documentation in 310 cases. In combined medical and nursing documentation, items poorly documented include blood pressure (BP; 21.3%) and secondary survey (16.9%). In solely medical documentation, least commonly documented items are high-risk bony injuries (22.5%), high-risk soft tissue injuries (22.3%), seizure (22.0%) and non-accidental injury (3.6%). Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was poorly documented in cases aged <1 year (10.9%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The largest gaps in the documentation of paediatric head injuries were BP and paediatric GCS in infants. Future audits and educational strategies should focus on targeting clinically relevant items that are predictive of serious outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vijay Manivel
- Emergency Department, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Emergency Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Nepean Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Suganya Vignakaran
- Paediatrics and Neonatology Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karina Hochholzer
- Emergency Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Emergency Department, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Chamila De Alwis
- Emergency Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Emergency Department, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Espinoza
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen Sze Shing Teo
- Emergency Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Paediatrics and Neonatology Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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24
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Feld K, Ricken T, Feld D, Helmus J, Hahnemann M, Schenkl S, Muggenthaler H, Pfeiffer H, Banaschak S, Karger B, Wittschieber D. Fractures and skin lesions in pediatric abusive head trauma: a forensic multi-center study. Int J Legal Med 2022; 136:591-601. [PMID: 34862583 PMCID: PMC8847172 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02751-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) and its most common variant, the shaken baby syndrome (SBS), are predominantly characterized by central nervous system-associated lesions. Relatively little data are available on the value of skeletal and skin injuries for the diagnosis of SBS or AHT. Thus, the present study retrospectively investigated 72 cases of living children diagnosed with the explicit diagnosis of SBS during medico-legal examinations at three German university institutes of legal medicine. The risk of circular reasoning was reduced by the presence of 15 cases with confession by perpetrators. Accordingly, the comparison with the 57 non-confession cases yielded no significant differences. Skeletal survey by conventional projection radiography, often incomplete, was found to be performed in 78% of the cases only. Fractures were found in 32% of the cases. The skull (43%) and ribs (48%) were affected most frequently; only 8% of the cases showed classic metaphyseal lesions. In 48% of the cases, healing fractures were present. Skin lesions (hematomas and abrasions) were found in 53% of the cases with the face (76%), scalp (26%), and trunk (50%) being the major sites. In 48% of the cases, healing skin lesions were observed. Nearly 80% of the cases with fractures also showed skin lesions. The data prove that SBS is frequently accompanied by other forms of physical abuse. Therefore, skeletal survey is indispensable and should always be done completely and according to existing imaging guidelines if child abuse is suspected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Feld
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tim Ricken
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Dustin Feld
- adiutaByte GmbH, Business Campus, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Janine Helmus
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Sebastian Schenkl
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Holger Muggenthaler
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Heidi Pfeiffer
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sibylle Banaschak
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bernd Karger
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Daniel Wittschieber
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
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25
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Akutsu N, Nonaka M, Narisawa A, Kato M, Harada A, Park YS. Infantile subdural hematoma in Japan: A multicenter, retrospective study by the J-HITs (Japanese head injury of infants and toddlers study) group. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264396. [PMID: 35213611 PMCID: PMC8880432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective
Subdural hematoma in infants or toddlers has often been linked to abuse, but it is not clear how many cases actually occur and how many are suspected of abuse. The purpose of this study was to investigate subdural hematoma in infants and toddlers in Japan.
Methods
This multicenter, retrospective study reviewed the clinical records of children younger than 4 years with head trauma who were diagnosed with any finding on head computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), such as skull fracture and/or intracranial injury. A total of 452 children were included. The group suspected to have been abused was classified as nonaccidental, and the group considered to have been caused by an accident was classified as accidental. Subdural hematoma and other factors were examined on multivariate analysis to identify which factors increase the risk of nonaccidental injuries.
Results
Of the 452 patients, 158 were diagnosed with subdural hematoma. Subdural hematoma was the most common finding intracranial finding in head trauma in infants and toddlers. A total of 51 patients were classified into the nonaccidental group, and 107 patients were classified into the accidental group. The age of patients with subdural hematoma showed a bimodal pattern. The mean age of the accidental group with subdural hematoma was significantly older than that in the nonaccidental group (10.2 months vs 5.9 months, respectively. p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that patients under 5 months old, retinal hemorrhage, and seizure were significant risk factors for nonaccidental injury (odds ratio (OR) 3.86, p = 0.0011; OR 7.63, p < 0.001; OR 2.49, p = 0.03; respectively). On the other hand, the odds ratio for subdural hematoma was 1.96, and no significant difference was observed (p = 0.34).
Conclusions
At least in Japanese children, infantile subdural hematoma was frequently observed not only in nonaccidental but also in accidental injuries. In infants with head trauma, age, the presence of retinal hemorrhage, and the presence of seizures should be considered when determining whether they were abused. Subdural hematoma is also a powerful finding to detect abuse, but care should be taken because, in some ethnic groups, such as the Japanese, there are many accidental cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyuki Akutsu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hyogo Prefectural Kobe Children’s Hospital, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Nonaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Ayumi Narisawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sendai City Hospital, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mihoko Kato
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aichi Children’s Health and Medical Center, Aichi, Japan
| | - Atsuko Harada
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Takatsuki General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Young-Soo Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan
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26
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Abstract
Background: Abusive head trauma (AHT) in children has recently been associated with findings on cervical spine MRI. Objective: To evaluate whether whole-spine MRI in children suspected of AHT shows additional abnormalities not identified on cervical spine MRI. Methods: This retrospective study included 256 children young than 3 years (170 boys, 86 girls; mean age, 5.9 months) who underwent skeletal survey and head MRI for suspected child abuse from January 2019 to December 2020. Per institutional protocol, children with suspected AHT also underwent whole-spine MRI. AHT diagnoses were established by combination of clinical information from medical record review and injuries described in reports from skeletal survey, head MRI, and head CT (if performed). Two pediatric neuroradiologists independently reviewed whole-spine MRI examinations for presence and level of intraspinal hemorrhage (classified as subarachnoid, subdural, or epidural), ligamentous injury, spinal cord edema, and vertebral fractures; subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, ligamentous injury, and fracture unidentified by skeletal survey were considered major findings. Interreader agreement was assessed; a third radiologist resolved discrepancies. Findings were summarized with attention to injuries isolated to the thoracolumbar spine. Results: A total of 148/256 (57.8%) children underwent whole-spine MRI. AHT was diagnosed in 79/148 (53.4%) children who underwent whole-spine MRI, versus in 2/108 (1.9%) who did not undergo whole-spine MRI (p<.001). Interobserver agreement. expressed as kappa, was 0.90 for intraspinal hemorrhage, 0.69 for ligamentous injury, 0.66 for spinal cord edema, and 0.95 for fracture. A total of 57/148 (38.5%) whole-spine MRI examinations demonstrated injuries; 34/148 (23.0%) demonstrated injuries localized to the thoracolumbar spine. A total of 47/148 (31.8%) whole-spine MRI examinations demonstrated major findings, of which 24/47 (51.1%) were localized to the thoracolumbar spine. Isolated thoracolumbar injuries included 23 of 34 subdural hematomas, 2 of 3 epidural hematomas, and 9 of 11 fractures, including 5 fractures not identified by skeletal survey. Diagnosis of AHT was more common in children with positive, versus negative, whole-spine MRI examinations (76.8% vs 39.1%, p<.001). Conclusion: In children with suspected AHT, whole-spine MRI commonly demonstrates isolated thoracolumbar injuries. Clinical Impact: The results support performing whole-spine MRI rather than cervical spine MRI in children with suspected AHT.
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27
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Wongkittichote P, Kondis JS, Peglar LM, Strahle JM, Miller-Thomas M, Abell KB. Pathogenic variant in NFIA associated with subdural hematomas mimicking nonaccidental trauma. Am J Med Genet A 2022; 188:1538-1544. [PMID: 35006644 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Subdural hematoma (SDH) in infants raises the concern for nonaccidental trauma (NAT), especially when presenting with associated injuries. However, isolated SDH could be caused by multiple etiologies. NFIA (MIM# 600727) encodes nuclear factor I A protein (NFI-A), a transcription factor which plays important roles in gliogenesis. Loss-of-function variants in NFIA are associated with autosomal dominant brain malformations with or without urinary tract defects (MIM# 613735). Intracranial hemorrhage of various types besides SDH has been reported in patients with this condition. Here, we report a patient with a heterozygous novel NFIA pathogenic variant affecting splicing who initially presented with SDH concerning for NAT. We also review previous NFIA-related disorder cases with intracranial hemorrhage. This report emphasizes the importance of genetic evaluation in infants presenting with isolated SDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parith Wongkittichote
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jamie S Kondis
- Child Abuse Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lindsay M Peglar
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jennifer M Strahle
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Michelle Miller-Thomas
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Katherine B Abell
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri, USA
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28
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Burns J, Rohl S, Marth D, Proctor D, Amin R, Sekhon C. Which Clinical Features of Children on Initial Presentation to the Emergency Department With Head Injury Are Associated With Clinically Important Traumatic Brain Injury, Classification as Abuse, and Poor Prognosis? Pediatr Emerg Care 2022; 38:e254-e258. [PMID: 32925700 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) and abusive head trauma (AHT) are leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Clinicians may not be aware of AHT at presentation to the emergency department (ED). OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine which clinical features associated with head injury in children on initial presentation to the ED trauma bay predict 3 outcomes including clinically important TBI (CiTBI), classification as confirmed abuse by Child Protection Team (CPT), and poor neurologic status on hospital discharge. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Inclusion for this study were children 3 years or younger, presenting to the ED with significant TBI. In addition, presentations where the mechanism of injury was not verifiable such as with falls, being struck by object, or no mechanism of injury reported by caregiver were included. METHODS Researchers used 3 sources of information for this analysis: a regional trauma registry, hospital records, and the CPT database. Clinical features included demographics, mechanisms of injury, physical, radiological findings, and CPT classification. RESULTS On pairwise analysis, seizures, apnea, and no mechanism of injury reported by caregiver were the only clinical features related to all 3 outcomes (P < 0.001). Rib fractures (relative risk [RR], 3.3; P < 0.001), long bone fractures (RR, 3.1; P < 0.001), retinal hemorrhages (RR, 3.0; P < 0.001), seizures (RR, 3.6; P < 0.001), apnea (RR, 4.4; P < 0.001), and younger than 6 months (RR, 1.8; P < 0.001) were related to AHT. On multivariable logistic regression, no mechanism of injury reported by caregiver and seizures remained significantly related to CiTBI; seizures and retinal hemorrhage remained significantly related to classification as abuse by CPT, and no mechanism of injury by the caregiver, apnea, and seizures were significantly related to poor outcome on hospital discharge. CONCLUSIONS No mechanism of injury reported by the caregiver, seizures, and apnea at the time of presentation to the ED are important features associated with CiTBI, classification as AHT, and poor prognosis. In addition, younger age, retinal hemorrhage, rib, and long bone fractures were found to be important clinical features associated with AHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Burns
- From the Pediatric Trauma Research Team, Studer Family Children's Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart
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29
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Cohrs G, Winter SM, Siska W, Thomale UW. Underestimating isolated bilateral hygroma as non-accidental head injury with dramatic consequences: a case presentation. Childs Nerv Syst 2022; 38:2429-2435. [PMID: 36323956 PMCID: PMC9630064 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-022-05720-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Abusive head injury (AHI) in infancy is associated with significantly worse outcomes compared to accidental traumatic brain injury. The decision-making of the diagnosis of AHI is challenging especially if the clinical signs are not presenting as a multifactorial pattern. METHOD We present a case of isolated bilateral hygroma in which this differential diagnosis of AHI was evaluated but primarily not seen as such leading subsequently to extensive secondary AHI with fatal brain injury. RESULTS The case of an 8-week-old infant with apparently isolated bilateral hygroma without any external signs of abuse and no retinal hemorrhages was interpreted in causative correlation to the perinatal complex course of delivery. At a second readmission of the case, severe brain injury with bilateral cortical hypoxia, subarachnoid and subdural hemorrhages, and skull and extremity fractures led to severe disability of the affected infant. CONCLUSION Any early suspicion of AHI with at least one factor possibly being associated with abusive trauma should be discussed in multidisciplinary team conferences to find the best strategy to protect the child. Beside clinical factors, social factors within the family household may additionally be evaluated to determine stress-related risk for traumatic child abuse. In general, prevention programs will be essential in future perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesa Cohrs
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sibylle Maria Winter
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany ,Child Protection Team, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wiebke Siska
- Child Protection Team, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrich-Wilhelm Thomale
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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30
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Boos SC, Wang M, Karst WA, Hymel KP. Traumatic Head Injury and the Diagnosis of Abuse: A Cluster Analysis. Pediatrics 2022; 149:183816. [PMID: 34890450 PMCID: PMC9645685 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-051742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Data guiding abusive head trauma (AHT) diagnosis rest on case-control studies that have been criticized for circularity. We wished to sort children with neurologic injury using mathematical algorithms, without reference to physicians' diagnoses or predetermined diagnostic criteria, and to compare the results to existing AHT data, physicians' diagnoses, and a proposed triad of findings. METHODS Unsupervised cluster analysis of an existing data set regarding 500 young patients with acute head injury hospitalized for intensive care. Three cluster algorithms were used to sort (partition) patients into subpopulations (clusters) on the basis of 32 reliable (κ > 0.6) clinical and radiologic variables. P values and odds ratios (ORs) identified variables most predictive of partitioning. RESULTS The full cohort partitioned into 2 clusters. Variables substantially (P < .001 and OR > 10 in all 3 cluster algorithms) more prevalent in cluster 1 were imaging indications of brain hypoxemia, ischemia, and/or swelling; acute encephalopathy, particularly when lasting >24 hours; respiratory compromise; subdural hemorrhage or fluid collection; and ophthalmologist-confirmed retinoschisis. Variables substantially (P < .001 and OR < 0.10 in any cluster algorithm) more prevalent in cluster 2 were linear parietal skull fracture and epidural hematoma. Postpartitioning analysis revealed that cluster 1 had a high prevalence of physician-diagnosed abuse. CONCLUSIONS Three cluster algorithms partitioned the population into 2 clusters without reference to predetermined diagnostic criteria or clinical opinion about the nature of AHT. Clinical difference between clusters replicated differences previously described in comparisons of AHT with non-AHT. Algorithmic partition was predictive of physician diagnosis and of the triad of findings heavily discussed in AHT literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C. Boos
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School—Baystate, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, Massachusetts,Address correspondence to Stephen C. Boos, MD, Baystate Medical Center, Family Advocacy Center, 300 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01199. E-mail:
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Wouter A. Karst
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Kent P. Hymel
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University and Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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31
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Watanabe Y, Shiga K, Kikuchi N, Kurihara Y, Sato A. A regional multidisciplinary network enhances child abuse case management. Pediatr Int 2022; 64:e15240. [PMID: 35859263 DOI: 10.1111/ped.15240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously reported an inadequate response to intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) cases under 24 months of age in Yokohama from 2011 to 2013. Hence, it is very important to evaluate how the establishment of a regional multidisciplinary network for child abuse affects the response to ICH cases in medical institutions. METHODS We conducted a questionnaire survey of ICH cases under 24 months of age from 2014 to 2016 using a regional multidisciplinary network for child abuse established in Yokohama in September 2013. We investigated the patients' characteristics, examinations to identify inflicted injury, and reports made to the hospital-based child protection team (CPT) or regional child protective service (CPS), and compared the results of a previous study and the current study, which corresponds to before and after the establishment of the regional network, respectively. RESULTS The total number of ICH cases was 50 in 3 years. The number of cases surveyed for covert fracture and fundus hemorrhage increased significantly after the establishment of the regional network (P = 0.0001 and P = 0.0182, respectively). The number of cases reported as suspected child abuse was 41 (82%) to the hospital-based CPTs and 27 (54%) to the regional CPSs. There were significant differences between before and after the establishment of the regional network regarding CPT (P = 0.0062) and CPS (P = 0.0215) reports. CONCLUSIONS A regional multidisciplinary network can enhance response and cooperation to address child abuse. It deepens our understanding of such care and improves awareness by hospital personnel of child abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiro Watanabe
- Yokohama Medical Network for Maltreated Children, Child and Youth Bureau, Yokohama Municipal Government, Yokohama, Japan.,Children's Medical Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kentaro Shiga
- Yokohama Medical Network for Maltreated Children, Child and Youth Bureau, Yokohama Municipal Government, Yokohama, Japan.,Children's Medical Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Kikuchi
- Yokohama Medical Network for Maltreated Children, Child and Youth Bureau, Yokohama Municipal Government, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, Yokohama City Minato Red Cross Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yachiyo Kurihara
- Yokohama Medical Network for Maltreated Children, Child and Youth Bureau, Yokohama Municipal Government, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, St. Marianna University Yokohama City Seibu Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Atsuo Sato
- Yokohama Medical Network for Maltreated Children, Child and Youth Bureau, Yokohama Municipal Government, Yokohama, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, Yokohama Rosai Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
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32
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Bechtel K, Derbyshire M, Gaither JR, Leventhal JM. Characteristics That Distinguish Abusive From Nonabusive Causes of Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e780-e783. [PMID: 30829845 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatal child abuse can be mistaken for sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) in the emergency department setting. It is unknown if there are characteristics that distinguish abusive from nonabusive causes of SUIDs in the emergency department. METHODS Using a matched case-control design, we reviewed the medical examiner records of deaths of infants younger than 12 months who were found unresponsive at a residence, required cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and had a complete forensic autopsy between 2009 and 2015. Infants with a manner of death as homicide were cases; controls were those with the manner of death as accident, natural, or undetermined. Each case was matched with 5 controls based on age (months). Differences between cases and controls were evaluated with respect to demographic, parental, and household characteristics and clinical outcomes. RESULTS We identified 12 cases (homicides) and 169 controls (nonhomicides), of which 60 were selected for the matched analysis. We found no significant differences between cases and controls with respect to age, race, sex, maternal substance use, Child Protective Services involvement prior to death, presence of male head of household, surviving siblings, or emergency medical services transport. Cases were more likely to have Child Protective Services involvement at the time of death (83% vs 38%; P = 0.01), sentinel injuries (odds ratio, 9.67; 95% confidence interval, 1.30-122.43), and return of spontaneous circulation (odds ratio, 29.99; 95% confidence interval, 3.70-241.30). CONCLUSIONS Child Protective Services agency involvement at time of death, sentinel injury, and return of spontaneous circulation were more often associated with abusive causes of SUID. Further study is needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Bechtel
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven
| | | | - Julie R Gaither
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven
| | - John M Leventhal
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven
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33
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Boruah AP, Potter TO, Shammassian BH, Hills BB, Dingeldein MW, Tomei KL. Evaluation of nonaccidental trauma in infants presenting with skull fractures: a retrospective review. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2021; 28:268-277. [PMID: 34171842 DOI: 10.3171/2021.2.peds20872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nonaccidental trauma (NAT) is one of the leading causes of serious injury and death among young children in the United States, with a high proportion of head injury. Numerous studies have demonstrated the safety of discharge of infants with isolated skull fractures (ISFs); however, these same studies have noted that those infants with suspected abuse should not be immediately discharged. The authors aimed to create a standardized protocol for evaluation of infants presenting with skull fractures to our regional level I pediatric trauma center to best identify children at risk. METHODS A protocol for evaluation of NAT was developed by our pediatric trauma committee, which consists of evaluation by neurosurgery, pediatric surgery, and ophthalmology, as well as the pediatric child protection team. Social work evaluations and a skeletal survey were also utilized. Patients presenting over a 2-year period, inclusive of all infants younger than 12 months at the time of presentation, were assessed. Factors at presentation, protocol compliance, and the results of the workup were evaluated to determine how to optimize identification of children at risk. RESULTS A total of 45 infants with a mean age at presentation of 5.05 months (SD 3.14 months) were included. The most common stated mechanism of injury was a fall (75.6%), followed by an unknown mechanism (22.2%). The most common presenting symptoms were swelling over the fracture site (25 patients, 55.6%), followed by vomiting (5 patients, 11.1%). For the entire population of patients with skull fractures, there was suspicion of NAT in 24 patients (53.3% of the cohort). Among the 30 patients with ISFs, there was suspicion of NAT in 13 patients (43.3% of the subgroup). CONCLUSIONS Infants presenting with skull fractures with intracranial findings and ISFs had a substantial rate of concern for the possibility of nonaccidental skull fracture. Although prior studies have demonstrated the relative safety of discharging infants with ISFs, it is critical to establish an appropriate standardized protocol to evaluate for infants at risk of abusive head trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Berje H Shammassian
- 1Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
- Departments of2Neurological Surgery and
| | - Byron B Hills
- 1Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
- Departments of2Neurological Surgery and
| | - Michael W Dingeldein
- 1Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
- 3Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
- and Divisions of4Pediatric Surgery and
| | - Krystal L Tomei
- 1Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
- Departments of2Neurological Surgery and
- 5Pediatric Neurosurgery, UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio
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34
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Manfield J, Oakley K, Macey JA, Waugh MC. Understanding the Five-Year Outcomes of Abusive Head Trauma in Children: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Dev Neurorehabil 2021; 24:361-367. [PMID: 33478304 DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2020.1869340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the long-term medical and developmental outcomes for children who survive abusive head trauma (AHT) is important to ensure necessary supports and services are available. This study examined the retrospective global and specific medical and developmental outcomes of 55 children with AHT who were treated at The Children's Hospital at Westmead. Global outcomes were assessed using the Kings Outcome Scale of Childhood Head Injury (KOSCHI). Five years post-injury, one child had died and two had made a complete recovery. Forty-five children (81.8%) had a moderate or severe disability, an increase from 64.5% at acute discharge. At follow-up, the main impairments were behavioral problems (53%), vision impairment (44%), fine motor difficulties (26%), gross motor problems (26%), communication problems (24%) and 16% had seizures. A Spearman's Rank correlation revealed that only 41% of variance in KOSCHI scores five years post-injury could be accounted for KOSCHI scores at the time of acute discharge (rs(55) = 0.638, p < .001), and many children's presentation was worse at follow-up. Therefore, all children presenting with AHT need long term follow up regardless of early indications of good recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimi Manfield
- The University of Notre Dame Australia, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Karen Oakley
- Kids Rehab, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia.,The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Mary-Clare Waugh
- Kids Rehab, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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35
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Unuma K, Makino Y, Yamamoto K, Hattori S, Arai N, Sakai K, Kitagawa M, Uemura K, Kanegane H. Fatal intracranial hemorrhage due to infantile acute lymphoblastic leukemia mimicking abusive head trauma. J Forensic Sci 2021; 66:2504-2510. [PMID: 34296766 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of a 2-month-old infant who was found moribund in her crib. Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) was performed before autopsy. As the baby had a severe subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, and encephalopathy on PMCT, abusive head trauma (AHT) was tentatively diagnosed. At autopsy, no scalp hemorrhages or skull fractures were found; however, the classic triad of AHT was present, mainly on the right side. Additionally, there was dark red discoloration around the heart, and the liver, spleen, and pancreas were enlarged. Peripheral blood was macroscopically cloudy with marked leukocytosis. After careful histological examination, B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was diagnosed. All the macroscopic lesions could be attributed to ALL. The manner of death was natural. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of infantile ALL mimicking AHT on PMCT images. This case demonstrates the importance of a comprehensive systematic approach to considering differential diagnosis when PMCT shows multiple intracranial hemorrhages suggestive of AHT in an infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kana Unuma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yohsuke Makino
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kouhei Yamamoto
- Department of Comprehensive Pathology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinya Hattori
- Department of Radiology, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Nobutaka Arai
- Laboratory of Neuropathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kentaro Sakai
- Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanobu Kitagawa
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Uemura
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kanegane
- Department of Child Health and Development, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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36
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Sidpra J, Chhabda S, Oates AJ, Bhatia A, Blaser SI, Mankad K. Abusive head trauma: neuroimaging mimics and diagnostic complexities. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:947-965. [PMID: 33999237 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-020-04940-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury is responsible for approximately half of all childhood deaths from infancy to puberty, the majority of which are attributable to abusive head trauma (AHT). Due to the broad way patients present and the lack of a clear mechanism of injury in some cases, neuroimaging plays an integral role in the diagnostic pathway of these children. However, this nonspecific nature also presages the existence of numerous conditions that mimic both the clinical and neuroimaging findings seen in AHT. This propensity for misdiagnosis is compounded by the lack of pathognomonic patterns and clear diagnostic criteria. The repercussions of this are severe and have a profound stigmatic effect. The authors present an exhaustive review of the literature complemented by illustrative cases from their institutions with the aim of providing a framework with which to approach the neuroimaging and diagnosis of AHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Sidpra
- University College London Medical School, London, UK
| | - Sahil Chhabda
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Adam J Oates
- Department of Radiology, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Aashim Bhatia
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Susan I Blaser
- Department of Radiology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK.
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Abstract
Enlarged subarachnoid spaces are a common finding in infants and young children imaged for macrocephaly or an enlarging head circumference, and benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces is often diagnosed. Infrequently, presumed "spontaneous" subdural hemorrhages or subdural collections might complicate these enlarged subarachnoid spaces. Children with large bilateral subdural collections might also present for imaging with macrocephaly. Each scenario potentially raises concerns for prior injury because subdural hemorrhage is a frequent finding in children with abusive head trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite M Caré
- Division of Pediatric Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
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38
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Eismann EA, Shapiro RA, Thackeray J, Makoroff K, Bressler CJ, Kim GJ, Vavul-Roediger L, McPherson P, Izsak E, Spencer SP. Providers' Ability to Identify Sentinel Injuries Concerning for Physical Abuse in Infants. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e230-e235. [PMID: 30095596 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to assess the ability of pediatric health care providers and social workers to recognize sentinel injuries in infants under 6 months of age and to determine what factors influence their decision to evaluate for physical abuse. METHODS A statewide collaborative focused on sentinel injuries administered a survey to pediatric health care providers and social workers in the emergency department, urgent care, and primary care. The survey contained 8 case scenarios of infants under 6 months of age with an injury, and respondents were asked if they would consider the injury to be a sentinel injury requiring a physical abuse evaluation. Respondents were then presented with several factors and asked how much each influences the decision to perform a physical abuse evaluation. RESULTS A total of 565 providers completed the survey. Providers had moderate interrater reliability on their classification of the cases as sentinel injuries or not (κ = 0.57). Nearly all respondents (97%) recognized genital bruising as a sentinel injury, whereas 77% of respondents recognized intraoral injuries. Agreement was highest among social workers (κ = 0.76) and physicians with categorical pediatrics training and pediatric emergency medicine fellowship (κ = 0.63) and lowest among nurse practitioners (κ = 0.48) and residents (κ = 0.51). Concern over missing the diagnosis of abuse had the greatest influence on the decision to perform a physical abuse evaluation. CONCLUSIONS Sentinel injuries are not uniformly recognized as potential signs of child abuse requiring further evaluation by pediatric health care providers. Additional evidence and education are needed regarding sentinel injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Grace J Kim
- University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital; Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland
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39
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Oates AJ, Sidpra J, Mankad K. Parenchymal brain injuries in abusive head trauma. Pediatr Radiol 2021; 51:898-910. [PMID: 33638693 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-021-04981-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The consequences of abusive head trauma (AHT) can be devastating for both the individual child and for wider society. Death is undoubtedly a very real possibility, but even for those children who survive, there is often very significant morbidity with the potential for gross motor and cognitive impairment, behavioural problems, blindness and epilepsy, which can greatly affect their quality of life. Caring for such children places a vast financial and infrastructural burden on society that frequently extends well into adulthood. While few struggle to have any sympathy for the perpetrator, frequently the infant's father, it should be noted that a single solitary and momentary loss of complete control can have horrific and unforeseen consequences. A number of papers within this edition describe features of AHT and include descriptions of skull fractures and extra-axial haemorrhage, along with mimics of such phenomena. However, in this review we concentrate our attention on the myriad of parenchymal findings that can occur. Such parenchymal injuries include hypoxic-ischaemic damage, clefts, contusion and focal haemorrhage. We offer our perspectives on current thinking on these entities and put them in the context of the immensely important question - how do we recognise abusive head trauma?
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Oates
- Department of Radiology, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jai Sidpra
- University College London Medical School, London, UK
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK.
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40
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Maiese A, Iannaccone F, Scatena A, Del Fante Z, Oliva A, Frati P, Fineschi V. Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma: A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11040734. [PMID: 33924220 PMCID: PMC8074611 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11040734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) represents a commonly misdiagnosed condition. In fact, there is no pathognomonic sign that allows the diagnosis in children. Therefore, it is such an important medico-legal challenge to evaluate reliable diagnostic tools. The aim of this review is to evaluate the current scientific evidence to assess what the best practice is in order to diagnose AHT. We have focused particularly on evaluating the importance of circumstantial evidence, clinical history, the use of postmortem radiological examinations (such as CT and MRI), and the performance of the autopsy. After autopsy, histological examination of the eye and brain play an important role, with attention paid to correlation with symptoms found in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (F.I.); (A.S.)
- IRCSS Neuromed Mediterranean Neurological Institute, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy;
| | - Francesca Iannaccone
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (F.I.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrea Scatena
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (F.I.); (A.S.)
| | - Zoe Del Fante
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Antonio Oliva
- Department of Health Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00100 Rome, Italy;
| | - Paola Frati
- IRCSS Neuromed Mediterranean Neurological Institute, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy;
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- IRCSS Neuromed Mediterranean Neurological Institute, Via Atinense 18, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy;
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-064-991-2722
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41
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Rowbotham SK, Blumenthal R, Delabarde T, Legrand L, van der Walt E, Sutherland T, Lockhat Z, Arthurs OJ. An evaluation of the differences in paediatric skeletal trauma between fatal simple short falls and physical abuse blunt impact loads: An international multicentre pilot study. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 323:110788. [PMID: 33915490 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In cases where a deceased child exhibits trauma as a result of a physical abuse blunt impact load, a parent/caregiver may provide a simple short fall (SSF) as the justification for that trauma. The skeletal fractures remain difficult to differentiate between a SSF and physical abuse however, as both are the result of a blunt impact load, and are therefore biomechanically alike, and the rare nature of these fatalities means only anecdotal research has been available to validate such claims. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate if there may be differences in the skeletal fracture patterns and types resulting from SSFs compared with those resulting from physical abuse blunt impacts. Paediatric (<10 years) cases of fatal SSFs (≤1.5 m) and physical abuse were collected from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (Australia), Institut Médico-Légal de Paris (France), University of Pretoria (South Africa) and Great Ormond Street Hospital (England). For each case the intrinsic and extrinsic variables were recorded from medico-legal reports and skeletal trauma was documented using post-mortem computed tomography scans and/or skeletal surveys. Three SSFs and 18 physical abuse cases were identified. Of the SSF cases, two exhibited fractures; both of which were simple linear neurocranial fractures. Comparatively, 12 of the physical abuse cases exhibited fractures and these were distributed across the skeleton; 58% located only in the skull, 17% only in the post-cranial and 25% located in both. Skull fracture types were single linear, multiple linear and comminuted. This pilot study suggests, anecdotally, there may be differences in the fracture patterns and types between blunt impact loads resulting from a SSF and physical abuse. This data will form the foundation of the Registry of Paediatric Fatal Fractures (RPFF) which, with further multicentre contributions, would allow this finding to be validated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha K Rowbotham
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh St, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia; Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, 65 Kavanagh St, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia.
| | - Ryan Blumenthal
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pathology Building, 5 Bophelo Rd, Prinshof Campus, 0084, South Africa
| | - Tania Delabarde
- Institut Médico-Légal de Paris, 2 Voie Mazas, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Laurence Legrand
- Université de Paris, INSERM U1266, Service d'Imagerie Morphologique et Fonctionnelle, GHU Paris Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Centre Hospitalier Sainte-Anne, 1 Rue Cabanis, 75674 Paris Cedex 14, France
| | - Elizabeth van der Walt
- Department of Radiology, University of Pretoria, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Malherbe St, Riviera, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Tom Sutherland
- St Vincent's Hospital, 9 Princes St, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Gratton St, Melbourne 3010, Australia; Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, 65 Kavanagh St, Southbank, Victoria 3006, Australia
| | - Zarina Lockhat
- Department of Radiology, University of Pretoria, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Malherbe St, Riviera, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Owen J Arthurs
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London WC1N 3JH, United Kingdom; UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
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Porto L, Bartels MB, Zwaschka J, You SJ, Polkowski C, Luetkens J, Endler C, Kieslich M, Hattingen E. Abusive head trauma: experience improves diagnosis. Neuroradiology 2021; 63:417-430. [PMID: 33079214 PMCID: PMC7880981 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-020-02564-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The diagnosis of abusive head trauma (AHT) is complex and neuroimaging plays a crucial role. Our goal was to determine whether non-neuroradiologists with standard neuroradiology knowledge perform as well as neuroradiologists with experience in pediatric neuroimaging in interpreting MRI in cases of presumptive AHT (pAHT). METHODS Twenty children were retrospectively evaluated. Patients had been diagnosed with pAHT (6 patients), non-abusive head trauma-NAHT (5 patients), metabolic diseases (3 patients), and benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces (BESS) (6 patients). The MRI was assessed blindly, i.e., no clinical history was given to the 3 non-neuroradiologists and 3 neuroradiologists from 2 different institutions. RESULTS Blindly, neuroradiologists demonstrated higher levels of sensitivity and positive predictive value in the diagnosis of pAHT (89%) than non-neuroradiologists (50%). Neuroradiologists chose correctly pAHT as the most probable diagnosis 16 out of 18 times; in contrast, non-neuroradiologists only chose 9 out of 18 times. In our series, the foremost important misdiagnosis for pAHT was NAHT (neuroradiologists twice and non-neuroradiologists 5 times). Only victims of motor vehicle accidents were blindly misdiagnosed as pAHT. No usual household NAHT was not misdiagnosed as pAHT. Neuroradiologists correctly ruled out pAHT in all cases of metabolic diseases and BESS. CONCLUSION MRI in cases of suspected AHT should be evaluated by neuroradiologists with experience in pediatric neuroimaging. Neuroradiologists looked beyond the subdural hemorrhage (SDH) and were more precise in the assessment of pAHT and its differential diagnosis than non-neuroradiologists were. It seems that non-neuroradiologists mainly assess whether or not a pAHT is present depending on the presence or absence of SDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Porto
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Marco Baz Bartels
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hospital of Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jonas Zwaschka
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Se-Jong You
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christoph Polkowski
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Julian Luetkens
- Institute of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Endler
- Institute of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthias Kieslich
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Hospital of Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elke Hattingen
- Institute of Neuroradiology, Hospital of Goethe University, University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2 - 16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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43
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Evaluating abusive head trauma in children <5 years old: Risk factors and the importance of the social history. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:390-396. [PMID: 33220974 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause traumatic death in children ≤5 years of age. AHT remains seriously under-surveilled, increasing the risk of subsequent injury and death. This study assesses the clinical and social risks associated with fatal and non-fatal AHT. METHODS A single-institution, retrospective review of suspected AHT patients ≤5 years of age between 2010 and 2016 using a prospective hospital forensic registry data yielded demographic, clinical, family, psycho-social and other follow-up information. Descriptive statistics were used to look for differences between patients with AHT and accidental head trauma. Logistic regression estimated the adjusted odds ratios (AOR) for AHT. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was created to calculate model sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS Forensic evaluations of 783 children age ≤5 years with head trauma met the inclusion criteria; 25 were fatal with median[IQR] age 23[4.5-39.0] months. Of 758 non-fatal patients, age was 7[3.0-11.0] months; 59.5% male; 435 patients (57.4%) presented with a skull fracture, 403 (53.2%) with intracranial hemorrhage. Ultimately 242 (31.9%) were adjudicated AHT, 335(44.2%) were accidental, 181 (23.9%) were undetermined. Clinical factors increasing the risk of AHT included multiple fractures (Exp(β) = 9.9[p = 0.001]), bruising (Expβ = 5.7[p < 0.001]), subdural blood (Exp(β) = 5.3[p = 0.001]), seizures (Exp(β) = 4.9[p = 0.02]), lethargy/unresponsiveness (Exp(β) = 2.24[p = 0.02]), loss of consciousness (Exp(β) = 4.69[p = 0.001]), and unknown mechanism of injury (Exp(β) = 3.9[p = 0.001]); skull fracture reduced the risk of AHT by half (Exp(β) = 0.5[p = 0.011]). Social risks factors included prior police involvement (Exp(β) = 5.9[p = 0.001]), substance abuse (Exp(β) = 5.7[p = .001]), unknown number of adults in the home (Exp(β) = 4.1[p = 0.001]) and intimate partner violence (Exp(β) = 2.3[p = 0.02]). ROC area under the curve (AUC) = 0.90([95% CI = 0.86-0.93] p = .001) provides 73% sensitivity; 91% specificity. CONCLUSIONS To improve surveillance of AHT, interviews should include and consider social factors including caregiver/household substance abuse, intimate partner violence, prior police involvement and household size. An unknown number of adults in home is associated with an increased risk of AHT. STUDY TYPE/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic, Level III.
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Mitchell IC, Norat BJ, Auerbach M, Bressler CJ, Como JJ, Escobar MA, Flynn‐O’Brien KT, Lindberg DM, Nickoles T, Rosado N, Weeks K, Maguire S. Identifying Maltreatment in Infants and Young Children Presenting With Fractures: Does Age Matter? Acad Emerg Med 2021; 28:5-18. [PMID: 32888348 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Child abuse is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in preverbal children who cannot explain their injuries. Fractures are among the most common injuries associated with abuse but of themselves fractures may not be recognized as abusive until a comprehensive child abuse evaluation is completed, often prompted by other signs or subjective features. We sought to determine which children presenting with rib or long-bone fractures should undergo a routine abuse evaluation based on age. METHODS A systematic review searching Ovid, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and CINAHL from 1980 to 2020 was performed. An evidence-based framework was generated by a consensus panel and applied to the results of the systematic review to form recommendations. Fifteen articles were suitable for final analysis. RESULTS Studies with comparable age ranges of subjects and sufficient evidence to meet the determination of abuse standard for pediatric patients with rib, humeral, and femoral fractures were identified. Seventy-seven percent of children presenting with rib fractures aged less than 3 years were abused; when those involved in motor vehicle collisions were excluded, 96% were abused. Abuse was identified in 48% of children less than 18 months with humeral fractures. Among those with femoral fractures, abuse was diagnosed in 34% and 25% of children aged less than 12 and 18 months, respectively. CONCLUSION Among children who were not in an independently verified incident, the authors strongly recommend routine evaluation for child abuse, including specialty child abuse consultation, for: 1) children aged less than 3 years old presenting with rib fractures and 2) children aged less than 18 months presenting with humeral or femoral fractures (Level of Evidence: III Review).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian C. Mitchell
- From theDepartments of Surgery University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and Baylor College of Medicine San Antonio TXUSA
| | - Bradley J. Norat
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio San Antonio TXUSA
| | - Marc Auerbach
- Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine Yale School of Medicine New Haven CTUSA
| | - Colleen J. Bressler
- Department of Pediatrics Medical University of South Carolina Charleston SCUSA
| | - John J Como
- Department of Surgery Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Cleveland OHUSA
| | - Mauricio A. Escobar
- Department of Surgery Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and Health Center Tacoma WAUSA
| | | | - Daniel M. Lindberg
- Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics University of Colorado School of Medicine Aurora COUSA
| | | | - Norell Rosado
- Department of Pediatrics Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago ILUSA
| | - Kerri Weeks
- Department of Pediatrics University of Kansas School of Medicine Wichita KSUSA
| | - Sabine Maguire
- Honorary Research Fellow in Child Health Cardiff University Medical School Cardiff UK
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Takeda R, Kobayashi S, Kamioka N, Hamajima N, Muramatsu K, Suzuki S. Post-Traumatic West Syndrome due to Abusive Head Trauma in Two Infants with Different Brain Imaging Findings. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2020; 250:167-171. [PMID: 32161214 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.250.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT), commonly known as shaken baby syndrome, is a cranial injury of infants and young children. AHT is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in young children, particularly those younger than 12 months of age. We describe two patients who developed West syndrome, which is a severe epilepsy syndrome composed of the triad of infantile spasms, hypsarrhythmia on electroencephalography, and developmental arrest or regression, possibly attributable to AHT. Case 1 was a 5-month-old boy presented with generalized convulsive status epilepticus when a babysitter had cared for him. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exhibited a subdural hemorrhage with diffuse brain edema and a midline shift highly suggestive of AHT. He developed West syndrome at the age of 10 months. Case 2 was a 6-month-old girl presented infantile spasms and diagnosed with West syndrome. Although she had poor weight gain due to inadequate care by her mother, there were no history of trauma, no cutaneous finding, and no developmental delay. Brain MRI performed when West syndrome was diagnosed revealed contusional tears highly suggestive of AHT. The MRI finding indicated that contusional tears had occurred 1~2 months before the development of West syndrome. There are no reports of West syndrome due to contusional tears. AHT may be an important risk factor for postnatal West syndrome. It is noteworthy that evidence of AHT was found only after West syndrome onset, as in Case 2. The onset of West syndrome may contribute to the finding that AHT had occurred earlier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa Takeda
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya City West Medical Center
| | | | - Naomi Kamioka
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya City West Medical Center
| | - Naoki Hamajima
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya City West Medical Center
| | | | - Satoshi Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagoya City West Medical Center
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Blackwell LS, Martinez M, Fournier-Goodnight A, Figueroa J, Appert A, Vats A, Wali B, Sayeed I, Reisner A. Patterns of Osteopontin Expression in Abusive Head Trauma Compared with Other Causes of Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury. J Pediatr 2020; 227:170-175. [PMID: 32622673 PMCID: PMC7686267 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2020.06.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine levels of plasma osteopontin (OPN), a recently described neuroinflammatory biomarker, in children with abusive head trauma (AHT) compared with children with other types of traumatic brain injury (TBI). STUDY DESIGN The study cohort comprised children aged <4 years diagnosed with TBI and seen in the intensive care unit in a tertiary children's hospital. Patients were classified as having confirmed or suspected AHT or TBI by other mechanisms (eg, motor vehicle accidents), as identified by a Child Protection Team clinician. Serial blood samples were collected at admission and at 24, 48, and 72 hours after admission. Levels of OPN were compared across groups. RESULTS Of 77 patients identified, 24 had confirmed AHT, 12 had suspected AHT, and 41 had TBI. There were no differences in the Glasgow Coma Scale score between the patients with confirmed AHT and those with suspected AHT and those with TBI (median score, 4.5 vs 4 and 7; P = .39). At admission to the emergency department, OPN levels were significantly higher in children with confirmed AHT compared with the other 2 groups (mean confirmed AHT, 471.5 ng/mL; median suspected AHT, 322.3 ng/mL; mean TBI, 278.0 ng/mL; P = .03). Furthermore, the adjusted mean trajectory levels of OPN were significantly higher in the confirmed AHT group compared with the other 2 groups across all subsequent time points (P = <.01). CONCLUSIONS OPN is significantly elevated in children with confirmed AHT compared with those with suspected AHT and those with other types of TBI. OPN expression may help identify children with suspected AHT to aid resource stratification and triage of appropriate interventions for children who are potential victims of abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura S. Blackwell
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | | | - Andrew Appert
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
| | - Atul Vats
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA,Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | - Andrew Reisner
- Department of Neuropsychology, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
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Amagasa S, Uematsu S, Tsuji S. Occurrence of traumatic brain injury due to short falls with or without a witness by a nonrelative in children younger than 2 years. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2020; 26:696-700. [PMID: 32916651 DOI: 10.3171/2020.6.peds20314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is disagreement about the occurrence of severe traumatic brain injury, especially subdural hematoma, caused by short falls in very young children. To verify intracranial injury due to these falls and examine its characteristics, the authors compared infants and toddlers with head trauma witnessed by a nonrelative with those whose injuries were not witnessed by a nonrelative. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed clinical records of children younger than 2 years with head trauma due to a short fall who visited the emergency department of the National Center for Child Health and Development in Japan between April 2015 and March 2018. Patients were classified into two groups: falls that were witnessed by a nonrelative and falls not witnessed by a nonrelative. The authors compared the age in months, sex, mechanism of injury, fall height, prevalence rate of intracranial injury, skull fracture, type of traumatic brain injury, retinal hemorrhage, rib or long-bone fracture, and outcomes between patients whose fall was witnessed by a nonrelative and those whose fall was not witnessed by a nonrelative. RESULTS Among 1494 patients included in the present analysis, 392 patients were classified into the group of falls witnessed by a nonrelative, and 1102 patients were classified into the group of falls that were not witnessed by a nonrelative. The prevalence rates of intracranial injury, skull fracture, epidural hematoma, and subarachnoid hemorrhage were equal between the groups. The prevalence rate of subdural hematoma in the group whose falls were witnessed by a nonrelative was significantly lower than that of the other group (p = 0.027). There were no patients with subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, or neurological sequelae in the group whose fall was witnessed by a nonrelative. CONCLUSIONS Subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, and neurological sequelae due to short falls were not seen after witnessed falls in the present study.
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Chahla S, Ortega H. Intracranial Injury Among Children with Abuse-Related Long Bone Fractures. J Emerg Med 2020; 59:735-743. [PMID: 32682640 PMCID: PMC7364151 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2020.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Background Objectives Methods Results Conclusions
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A verified period of normal neurologic status in a young victim of abusive head trauma. J Forensic Leg Med 2020; 74:102024. [PMID: 33012312 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2020.102024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of child physical abuse fatalities, and survivors frequently face life-long consequences. Victims of AHT are typically infants, and many are subjected to repeat AHT if not accurately identified and protected. Identifying the timing of AHT is often a medical-forensic process, and investigative personnel use the determination of timing of AHT to guide safety decisions for the child victim. If the medical-forensic timing of AHT is incorrect, a child could be inappropriately placed and/or an innocent caregiver could be subject to prosecution. Victims of AHT who suffer severe/permanent injury are felt to demonstrate symptoms immediately after the trauma, and AHT victims with milder injury are thought to generally have persistent or recurrent clinical signs shortly after the trauma. Periods of normal neurologic appearance, in which a victim of AHT is completely asymptomatic for an extended time after the trauma, are felt to be rare and have not been well characterized in the literature. This case involves a 2-month-old infant victim of AHT who presented to medical care with mild neurologic symptoms that resolved without intervention from medical personnel. While hospitalized, the infant had an asymptomatic period of approximately 38 hours prior to more severe neurologic decompensation, then later returned to neurologic baseline. This case highlights the challenges in accurately timing AHT in very young victims who return to neurologic baseline by characterizing a verifiable prolonged period of normal neurologic appearance and function after AHT.
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Kazmir S, Rosado N. Abusive Head Trauma: A Review of Current Knowledge. CLINICAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpem.2020.100791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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