Retinopathy in the sexually abused battered child

Two cases of Purtscher's retinopathy in sexually abused battered children were observed. The major ocular findings were severe diffuse subretinal, retinal, and preretinal hemorrhages. Sexual trauma in conjunction with shaking may have produced sufficient changes in intraabdominal and intrathoracic pressure to account for retinal and intracranial hemorrhage. A prompt examination by an ophthalmologist is recommended for all children who are victims of physical abuse.