Citation

Grellner W, Metzner G. Arch. Kriminol. 1995; 195(1-2): 38-46.

Vernacular Title

Kindesmisshandlung durch thermische Gewalt--Abgrenzung und Rekonstruktion.

Affiliation

Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Universität zu Köln.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1995, Verlag Schmidt-Romhild)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

7710314

Abstract

Problems in the judgement of child abuse due to thermal violence are discussed by means of two examined cases. In a baby dermal lesions in the course of a bacterial infectious disease (bullous impetigo) were first misinterpreted as heat effects (cigarette, hot instrument). In the case of an infant presenting with marked imprints of a hot iron abuse was to be differentiated versus an accidental causation. Conclusions: In the interpretation of possible thermal injuries in children natural preexisting disorders of the skin should be taken into consideration. In cases of doubt an appropriate clinical diagnosis or a subsequent follow-up examination, respectively, is recommended. Thus, the course of events can be observed and an unjustified incrimination of persons having custody is avoided.

Language: de