Related Experiment Videos
Child Abuse: Imaging Findings Pertaining to the Musculoskeletal System
Kimberly E. Applegate1, Mark S. Finkelstein, George W. Gross
1Department of Radiology, Division of Pediatric Radiology, Rainbow Babies and Childrens Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio.
Insights
Radiologists can identify child abuse through musculoskeletal imaging findings. This review covers imaging approaches, common signs, and diagnostic challenges in suspected child abuse cases.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pediatrics
- Forensic Medicine
Background:
- Child abuse is often underrecognized and underreported.
- Musculoskeletal imaging plays a crucial role in identifying signs of abuse.
- Radiologists can provide critical support for clinical diagnoses of child abuse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the imaging approach for the musculoskeletal system in suspected child abuse.
- To illustrate common imaging findings indicative of child abuse.
- To discuss potential imaging pitfalls and differential diagnoses.
Main Methods:
- Review of imaging findings in suspected child abuse.
- Focus on musculoskeletal structures.
- Exclusion of non-musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., brain, spinal cord, GI, GU, cardiopulmonary).
Main Results:
- Musculoskeletal imaging reveals a spectrum of findings suggestive of child abuse.
- Specific patterns of injury can help identify abusive trauma.
- Awareness of pitfalls and alternative diagnoses is essential for accurate interpretation.
Conclusions:
- Musculoskeletal imaging is vital for detecting and supporting the diagnosis of child abuse.
- A systematic approach and knowledge of common findings are necessary.
- Radiologists are key in identifying non-accidental trauma.
Abstract:
Both underrecognized and underreported, child abuse has a spectrum of findings on imaging of the musculoskeletal structures that may permit the radiologist to first suggest the occurrence of child abuse or to help support clinical concern for a diagnosis of child abuse. This article will discuss the approach to imaging of the musculoskeletal system in suspected child abuse, illustrate many of the more common imaging findings, and present imaging pitfalls and alternative diagnostic considerations. Injuries to the brain, spinal cord, gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems, and cardiopulmonary structures are outside the scope of this article.