Fifteen-minute consultation: Childhood burns: inflicted, neglect or accidental

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Child Abuse and Neglect
• Forensic Medicine

Background:

• Burns are a frequent pediatric injury, with significant numbers linked to maltreatment.
• Maltreatment-related burns can indicate physical abuse or neglect, necessitating prompt intervention.
• Current child protection investigation rates for burn injuries are lower than for other physical traumas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence differentiating maltreatment from accidental pediatric burns.
• To guide pediatricians in identifying and investigating safeguarding concerns related to burns.
• To support the safe assessment and management of children with scalds or contact burns.

Main Methods:

• Case-based review of key variables.
• Utilizing up-to-date evidence and recommendations.
• Analysis of factors distinguishing intentional from unintentional burns.

Main Results:

• Maltreatment accounts for an estimated 10% of pediatric burns.
• A disparity exists in child protection investigations for burn injuries versus other physical traumas.
• Specific variables can aid in differentiating abuse-related burns from accidental injuries.

Conclusions:

• Paediatricians require confidence in identifying safeguarding concerns in burn cases.
• Early identification and investigation of maltreatment-related burns are paramount.
• Evidence-based assessment and management are essential for affected children.