Ocular and Intracranial MR Imaging Findings in Abusive Head Trauma

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neurology
• Forensic Medicine

Background:

• Abusive head trauma (AHT) is a severe form of inflicted head injury, predominantly affecting children under two years old.
• AHT is a significant cause of pediatric neurological impairment and mortality.
• Diagnosis relies on a comprehensive assessment of clinical, social, laboratory, and radiological data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the diagnostic utility of brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in identifying injuries associated with AHT.
• To emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in diagnosing AHT.
• To underscore the role of advanced imaging techniques in providing forensic evidence for AHT recognition.

Main Methods:

• Review of diagnostic findings from brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Integration of clinical, social, laboratory, and radiological data.
• Evaluation of the impact of high-resolution imaging techniques on AHT diagnosis.

Main Results:

• Brain MRI effectively visualizes retinal hemorrhages, bridging vein injuries, and extra-/intra-axial bleeds, contusions, lacerations, and strokes.
• A multidisciplinary team approach is crucial for accurate AHT diagnosis.
• High-resolution imaging techniques enhance the forensic evidence supporting AHT recognition.

Conclusions:

• Brain MRI is a vital tool in diagnosing AHT by revealing characteristic injuries.
• Accurate AHT diagnosis necessitates a collaborative, multidisciplinary effort.
• Emerging high-resolution imaging technologies strengthen the forensic basis for identifying abusive head trauma.