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Citation |
Raissaki M, Veyrac C, Blondiaux E, Hadjigeorgi C. Pediatr. Radiol. 2011; 41(1): 4-16. |
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Affiliation |
Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion, University of Crete, Stavrakia, Voutes, P.O. Box 2208, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece, mraissaki@yahoo.gr. |
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Copyright |
(Copyright © 2011, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group) |
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DOI |
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PMID |
21088831 |
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Abstract |
INTRODUCTION: Abdominal injuries in abused children are less common than musculoskeletal and craniocerebral injuries; however they carry high mortality and morbidity rates. In every case of trauma, regardless of aetiology, radiologists are responsible for the documentation and evaluation of injuries. INJURIES: Any abdominal injury pattern maybe observed following physical abuse and none is specific for abuse. However, a high index of suspicion should be maintained for every case of pancreatic, hollow viscous and other solid organ injuries, especially when there is delay in seeking help, a history of trauma to the child or siblings, young age, undernourishment, ecchymosis in non-ambulatory children or a non-plausible explanation for the injuries based on the provided history and the psychomotor condition of the child. IMAGING MODALITIES: CT with intravenous contrast material is the imaging modality of choice in every suspected inflicted abdominal injury. US could be the first imaging test for abused children with a low probability of abdominal injury and for follow-up. Upper gastrointestinal series could reveal acute or resolving mural haematomas in children with equivocal CT or US findings. CONCLUSION: Child abuse should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal symptoms in young children. Language: en |