Abusive head trauma

Abusive head trauma (AHT), also known as shaken baby syndrome (SBS), is a form of inflicted traumatic brain injury that happens when a baby is violently shaken. A baby has weak neck muscles and a large, heavy head. Shaking makes the fragile brain bounce back and forth inside the skull and causes bruising, swelling, and bleeding, which can lead to permanent, severe brain damage or death. The characteristic injuries of AHT are subdural hemorrhages (bleeding in the brain), retinal hemorrhages (bleeding in the retina), damage to the spinal cord and neck, and fractures of the ribs and bones. These injuries may not be immediately noticeable. Symptoms of AHT include extreme irritability, lethargy, poor feeding, breathing problems, convulsions, vomiting, and pale or bluish skin. AHT is a medical emergency.

Causes

Abusive head trauma is caused by violent shaking or the impact of a child's head on a hard surface. It is a form of child abuse. In many cases, the caregiver cannot get the baby to stop crying, and out of frustration or anger, shakes the baby. Unfortunately, this action can cause irreversible brain damage or death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of AHT is based on a combination of physical and radiological findings, as well as the patient's medical history. The presence of subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhage, and brain injury without a reasonable explanation are indicative of AHT. Other injuries often present in AHT, such as fractures of the ribs and extremities, may also be detected.

Treatment

Treatment for AHT is focused on stopping and reversing the effects of the trauma to the brain. This may involve a combination of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative approaches. Early intervention is crucial to limit the extent of brain damage and improve the child's prognosis.

Prevention

Prevention of AHT involves educating parents and caregivers about the dangers of shaking a baby and providing strategies for managing stress and frustration. Many hospitals and health departments offer programs and materials to help educate parents and prevent AHT.

See also

• Child abuse
• Traumatic brain injury
• Subdural hematoma
• Retinal hemorrhage

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