Abstract

FERREIRA, Raquel  and  SILVA, Marta. Shaken baby Syndrome: diagnostic approach. Arq Med [online]. 2014, vol.28, n.5, pp.145-151. ISSN 2183-2447.

Shaken baby Syndrome characterized by repeated movement acceleration/decceleration of the head, classically associated with the clinical spectrum of subdural hematomas, retinal hemorrhages and encephalopathy, is seen more often in children younger than 1 year. it is the most common cause of infant mortality due to physical abuse and it is associated with high morbidity rate, particularly from serious neurological sequelae. despite recent public awareness of the syndrome, many cases remain undiagnosed and neglected. it is a difficult and controversial diagnosis, which requires a high integration of the history, physical and clinical findings and evidence in diagnostic procedures. This review aims to point the importance of recognizing potential warning signs, gather the information and procedures for the proper and timely diagnosis and support the intervention of a multidisciplinary team approach in these victims. Additionally, it asks for investment in preventive measures and invites the healthcare professionals to an interventional role for this important issue in child health.

Keywords : shaken baby syndrome; diagnosis.

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