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Pediatric penetrating cardiac injury from abuse: a case report

Juan E Sola1, Jorge Huaco Cateriano, William R Thompson

  • 1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Holtz Center 3019, 1611 NW 12 Street, 33136, Miami, FL, USA. jsola@med.miami.edu

Pediatric Surgery International
|November 2, 2007
PubMed

Insights

This case report details the first instance of an intracardiac needle injury in an infant, highlighting the critical need for vigilance in diagnosing child abuse.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Forensic Pediatrics
  • Child Abuse Detection

Background:

  • Cardiac foreign bodies are typically associated with trauma.
  • Intentional cardiac injury in infants is rare.
  • Previous literature lacks documented cases of intracardiac needles as a result of abuse.

Observation:

  • A case of intentional injury in an infant presenting with an intracardiac needle is described.
  • This represents the first reported instance of such an injury.
  • The needle was located within the heart.

Findings:

  • The study confirms the occurrence of intentional intracardiac needle injury in an infant.
  • Literature review indicates this is a novel presentation of child abuse.
  • Diagnostic vigilance is paramount in suspected cases.

Implications:

  • Healthcare providers must maintain a high index of suspicion for child abuse in infants with unexplained cardiac findings.
  • Early recognition and intervention are crucial for the child's well-being.
  • This case underscores the importance of thorough evaluation in pediatric forensic cases.

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