The role of the radiologist on the child abuse team

Physicians in most jurisdictions are mandated to report all suspected cases of child abuse to the appropriate authorities. Often in a position to initially suspect child abuse, the radiologist must be aware of the roentgenographic manifestations of the various forms of child abuse. In recognition of the difficulty for an individual to maintain expertise in all aspects of child abuse, multidisciplinary teams have evolved to share responsibility in the diagnosis and treatment of child abuse as well as aid in prosecution of the perpetrator and in family therapy when applicable.