Usefulness of computed tomography performed after forensic autopsy in the diagnosis of the battered child syndrome: a case report Cover Image

Usefulness of computed tomography performed after forensic autopsy in the diagnosis of the battered child syndrome: a case report
Usefulness of computed tomography performed after forensic autopsy in the diagnosis of the battered child syndrome: a case report

Author(s): Rafał Skowronek, Damian Ptak, Joanna Pilch-Kowalczyk
Subject(s): Criminology
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego
Keywords: Abused child syndrome; Autopsy; Computed tomography; Forensic medical opinions

Summary/Abstract: Diagnostic imaging methods routinely used in clinical practice (mainly multi-slice computed tomography, CT) are increasingly entering forensic practice, also in Poland. Typically these exams are performed prior to an appropriate external examination and autopsy. The aim of the study is to present a case in which computed tomography examination performed only after forensic medical autopsy turned out to be useful in the diagnosis of an abused child syndrome. The CT examination showed, inter alia, nighstick injury/fracture of the ulna in its distal part, and deformation of the base of the phalanx of the distal finger of the fourth left hand, corresponding to a fracture/crush. Post-mortem imaging may be useful in the case of a suspected abused child syndrome.

  • Issue Year: 2022
  • Issue No: 132
  • Page Range: 219-228
  • Page Count: 10
  • Language: English