What Types of Children Are More Likely to Die From Abusive Head Trauma?

Background: Unfortunately, child abuse is endemic in this country. Annually, >120,000 children are victims of physical abuse in the United States. In 2009, >600 children died as a result of physical abuse, and the majority of those deaths were due to abusive head trauma (AHT). Apart from the mortality rates that reach as high as 35.7% due to AHT, various studies have shown that 42% to 96% of the survivors suffer significant morbidity, specifically neurologic morbidity. The morbidity and mortality are significantly greater and more distinct with AHT compared to accidental traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the risk factors for sustaining these negative outcomes are not well defined. Objective: To identify the risk factors for mortality in children who have sustained AHT. Design: Retrospective analysis of 386 children with AHT. Methods: Cases were identified by the Child Protection Team at 4 pediatric health care centers. Severity of head injuries was determined based on the initia more...