Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

Most of the care provided by pediatric and other trainees in hospital settings is related to the injuries associated with physical abuse. Bruises, burns and other skin lesions are the most common physical manifestations of abuse, followed by fractures and other bony findings. Oral, thoracic, and abdominal injuries follow in number. While more uncommon, head injuries, poisoning and fatality are encountered with potentially more serious effects. Diagnosis is reviewed in this issue as are medical and legal considerations in reporting and sharing information with child protective services and the courts. Potential look-alikes and lesions caused by underlying medical conditions are reviewed to help the trainee construct an appropriate differential diagnosis and understand the normal childhood injuries that may mimic child abuse.