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A battered child case with duodenal perforation

Mehmet Sunay Yavuz1, Ilker Buyukyavuz, Cagri Savas

  • 1Forensic Medicine Department, Medical Faculty of Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey.

Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine
|April 22, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This case report details a 28-month-old boy with battered child syndrome, presenting with severe abdominal blunt trauma and duodenal rupture. It highlights the medical and legal aspects of diagnosing and managing such severe pediatric injuries.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Trauma Surgery
  • Child Abuse

Background:

  • Battered child syndrome involves non-accidental physical trauma affecting a child's development.
  • Early recognition is crucial for intervention and preventing further harm.

Observation:

  • A 28-month-old boy presented with fever, respiratory acidosis, and neck stiffness, initially suspected as meningitis.
  • Physical examination revealed facial and arm lesions; subsequent abdominal symptoms and imaging indicated severe blunt abdominal trauma.
  • Radiological findings included an old rib fracture, distended bowel loops, and air-fluid levels on X-ray.

Findings:

  • Laparotomy confirmed a complete duodenal rupture at the junction of the third and fourth parts.
  • Multiple hemorrhagic regions were observed on the bowel loops, indicating extensive internal injury.
  • The child was hospitalized for 42 days for treatment and recovery.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering non-accidental trauma in pediatric presentations with severe abdominal injuries.
  • It emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving medical and legal professionals in managing child abuse cases.
  • The report contributes to understanding the complexities of battered child syndrome and its management in a Turkish context.

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