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[Münchhausen syndrome by proxy]

M-F Le Heuzey1, M-C Mouren

  • 1Service de psychopathologie de l'enfant et de l'adolescent, hôpital Robert-Debré, 48, boulevard Sérurier, 75019 Paris, France. marie-france.leheuzey@rdb.aphp.fr

Archives De Pediatrie : Organe Officiel De La Societe Francaise De Pediatrie
|January 8, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Münchhausen syndrome by proxy is a factitious disorder where a caregiver fabricates or induces illness in a child. Early recognition is crucial for child protection and to prevent unnecessary medical interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Child Abuse
  • Psychiatry

Context:

  • Münchhausen syndrome by proxy (MSbP) is a form of child abuse and medical child abuse.
  • It is a factitious disorder imposed on another, typically by a mother.
  • Clinical presentations are diverse and often unusual, including factitious bleeding, seizures, and apnea.

Purpose:

  • To raise awareness among healthcare professionals about Münchhausen syndrome by proxy.
  • To emphasize the importance of considering MSbP in ambiguous pediatric cases.
  • To highlight the role of physicians in inadvertently participating in the abuse.

Summary:

  • MSbP involves a caregiver fabricating or inducing illness in a child.
  • The child may present with varied and uncommon symptoms like bleeding, epilepsy, or apnea.
  • Physicians' diagnostic and therapeutic actions can inadvertently facilitate the abuse.

Impact:

  • Prompt diagnosis of MSbP is essential for child evaluation and protection.
  • Increased physician awareness can lead to earlier identification and intervention.
  • Understanding MSbP aids in preventing further harm to affected children.

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