A Multispecialty Approach to the Identification and Diagnosis of Nonaccidental Trauma in Children

Abstract

Child abuse is a preventable phenomenon of considerable concern resulting in significant child mortality and morbidity. We analyze various abuse lesions such as radiological (visceral and skeletal lesions and those associated with head trauma) and cutaneous (burns, bruises, bites, etc.) to enhance streamlined identification of injuries in cases of physical child abuse. For effective results, it is essential to remain mindful of all background factors, such as the caregiver setting and the prevalence of child maltreatment in the concerned community while acknowledging the possibility of natural causes (genetic diseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta and hemophilia, or acquired abnormalities) that can mimic NAT and cause confusion in diagnosis and treatment. The margin of error in cases of abuse is negligible, therefore, making its diagnosis a momentous as well as challenging clinical task. An ineffective diagnosis can have detrimental emotional consequences for the family and may even expose the child to future potentially fatal episodes of abuse. Hence, there is a need to direct special focus on the importance of accurate history taking and immediate, responsible reporting to authorities, as well as to child protective services. Therefore, considering the multifactorial approach this subject requires, this review aims to delve into prevalence statistics, various risk factors, and their effect on psychological health to offer a near-complete regulation to ensure an effective understanding of NAT on part of doctors, social workers, and other relevant authorities.

Patterns for Child Protective Service Referrals in a Pediatric Burn Cohort

“…In addition to unfavorable inpatient hospitalization courses, contact with CPS is associated with worsened child outcomes [25][26][27]. Additively, minority groups may have fewer social safety nets, a lower threshold for maltreatment by child welfare groups, and child welfare/healthcare worker implicit bias that may impact CPS referral dispositions.…”

“…The tool focuses on the mechanism and pattern of burn injury, the presence of associated or co-existing injuries, and historical or social factors [ 28 ]. Manan et al also proposed a multi-specialty approach and practice points for history-taking in cases of suspected abuse [ 27 ]. Healthcare providers should learn to recognize discrepancies, identify uncooperative caregiver behavior, and conduct independent interviews with the child [ 27 ].…”

“…Manan et al also proposed a multi-specialty approach and practice points for history-taking in cases of suspected abuse [ 27 ]. Healthcare providers should learn to recognize discrepancies, identify uncooperative caregiver behavior, and conduct independent interviews with the child [ 27 ]. Further investigation to develop multi-disciplinary support for patients undergoing CPS investigation is warranted.…”

Violencia y maltrato infantil. El aporte del médico radiólogo al abordaje integral multidisciplinario

“…3 Los mecanismos de lesión en general implican golpes directos sobre el abdomen o fuerza brusca de desaceleración y son más frecuentes de encontrar en niños que deambulan. 14 Si bien la ecografía de abdomen es el primer estudio para realizar ante la sospecha de maltrato con lesión abdominal, la TC de abdomen con contraste endovenoso es el estudio indicado. 3…”

Global Needs and Barriers for Medical Research Education: Initiatives to Solve the Physician-Scientists Shortage

“…We see the successfully published articles of these collaborations as a transcript of our efforts. The manuscripts tackled topics in the fields of hematology and oncology, [17][18][19][20][21][22][23] ethics (e.g., diversity, equity and inclusion), [24][25][26][27] infectious diseases, 28,29 surgery, 30,31 pediatrics, 32 and physical and rehabilitation medicine. [33][34][35] We invite you to read them and encourage you to include students and early career scientists in your research projects.…”