Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026

A Pediatric Concussion Model in Mice: Closed Head Injury with Long-Term Disorders (CHILD)
Published on: February 7, 2025
Nonaccidental injury in childhood
1Victorian Forensic Paediatric Medical Service, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. anne.smith@rch.org.au
Insights
Child abuse and neglect cause significant harm to children. General practitioners must be skilled in recognizing and responding to these cases, as child abuse remains a common concern.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Forensic Medicine
- Child Welfare
Background:
- Nonaccidental injury is a major cause of death and illness in young children.
- Child abuse and neglect present a significant public health challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review physical injuries associated with child abuse and neglect.
- To emphasize the importance of recognition and response by healthcare professionals.
Main Methods:
- This article is a review focusing on observed physical injuries.
- Data on child abuse and neglect notifications and substantiations in Australia were analyzed.
Main Results:
- In 2009-2010, Australian agencies received over 187,000 notifications of suspected child abuse and neglect.
- Over 31,000 cases were substantiated, affecting 6.1 per 1000 children.
- A reduction in notifications and substantiated reports was observed compared to the previous year.
Conclusions:
- Child abuse and neglect remain prevalent issues, highlighting children's vulnerability.
- General practitioners require expertise in identifying and addressing child abuse and neglect.
- Early recognition and intervention are crucial for child protection.
Background:
Nonaccidental injury is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity, especially in infants and young children.
Objective:
This article focuses on physical injuries that are commonly observed when children have been physically harmed as a result of abuse and neglect.
Discussion:
In 2009-2010 statutory child protection agencies in Australia received 187 314 notifications regarding suspected child abuse and neglect, of which 31 295 were substantiated. Substantiated child abuse and neglect occurred for 6.1 per 1000 Australian children. The good news is that these data represent a 10% reduction in the number of notifications and a 4% reduction in the number of substantiated reports compared to 2008-2009 data. Children are vulnerable and child abuse is common. It is therefore important for all general practitioners to be skilled in recognising and responding to child abuse and neglect.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology
Cellular Injury II: Classification
Torts III
Quasi-intentional torts in healthcare involve acts where intent is not directed to harm an individual but results in harm due to careless or reckless speech.
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Cellular Injury I: Introduction

