Imaging and Demographic Risk Factors in the Diagnosis of Pediatric Nonaccidental Trauma

The patient described in this case received a diagnosis of severe head trauma that resulted in death. Imaging findings, along with discrepancies in the parental explanation of the incident, aided the forensic investigators to identify the case as nonaccidental trauma (NAT).

Identifying demographic risk factors and performing proper clinical evaluations can serve an important role in the diagnosis of pediatric NAT. Imaging modalities such as radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging can help determine the extent of trauma.

Abuse is frequent in the pediatric population. To help prevent future cases of abuse, medical professionals should be fluent in identifying differences between accidental and NAT. Using multiple imaging modalities, NAT in pediatric patients can be identified and treated adequately.