Physical Abuse: Cutaneous Injuries.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-2025
Identifier
DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2025.01.004
Abstract
Cutaneous injuries are the most common presentation of child physical abuse. Identification of injuries concerning for physical abuse is a challenging but important responsibility of pediatric clinicians. It is important for pediatric clinicians to consider 3 key features including age/developmental abilities of child, location of injury, and pattern of injury when assessing injuries concerning for abuse. A thorough medical evaluation and consideration of a broad differential help ensure that a medical mimic is not mistaken for abuse. Early identification of concerning injuries and reporting to appropriate agencies may protect children from further harm.
Journal Title
Pediatric clinics of North America
Volume
72
Issue
3
First Page
381
Last Page
409
MeSH Keywords
Humans; Child Abuse; Child; Skin; Physical Examination; Wounds and Injuries; Child, Preschool; Infant; Diagnosis, Differential
PubMed ID
40335168
Keywords
Bleeding disorder; Bruising; Burns; Mimic; Patterned injury; Physical abuse
Recommended Citation
Killough E, Horton D, Kilbride S, Hansen J. Physical Abuse: Cutaneous Injuries. Pediatr Clin North Am. 2025;72(3):381-409. doi:10.1016/j.pcl.2025.01.004
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