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Journal of Pediatric Neuroradiology 2016; 05(01): 038-044
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1584283
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart • New York

The Role of Neuroimaging in the Evaluation of Abusive Head Trauma

Tanya Hinds
1   Freddie Mac Foundation Child and Adolescent Protection Center, Children's National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
,
Eglal Shalaby-Rana
2   Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology, Children's National Health System, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

31 October 2016

31 October 2016

Publication Date:
13 June 2016 (online)

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Abstract

Neuroimaging is an integral part of the work-up for children who may have experienced abusive head trauma (AHT). The initial exam is usually a head computed tomography (CT), which may be followed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and/or spine, depending on clinical presentation and/or findings on head CT. Neuroimaging is important for both clinical care and prognosis, as well as the process of distinguishing AHT from accidental trauma. Brain CT and conventional MRI may provide evidence of more than one traumatic event. Diffusion-weighted and susceptibility-weighted imaging help with both acute clinical interventions and prognostication about neurodevelopmental outcomes. With more widespread use of spinal MRI, there is increased appreciation of the spectrum of clinically occult spinal soft tissue injuries associated with AHT. This review highlights clinical and radiologic findings in children evaluated for AHT and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary evaluation.

Keywords

abusive head trauma - subdural hemorrhage - spinal injuries
 

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