Abusive head trauma (AHT)
Definition
Intracranial injury resulting from violent shaking, with or without impact. Findings include subdural haematoma, subarachnoid haemorrhage, diffuse axonal injury, and retinal haemorrhages. Previously called shaken baby syndrome, the broader term reflects that the mechanism may be complex.
Related terms
- Child Advocacy Centre (CAC)
- A child-focused facility that houses the medical, investigative, and support functions of a child abuse case in one location. The multidisciplinary team...
- Metaphyseal corner fracture
- A fracture through the metaphyseal collar of a long bone, producing a triangular or bucket-handle fragment. Caused by traction and torsion forces...
- Non-accidental injury (NAI)
- Physical harm inflicted deliberately or through gross neglect rather than by accident. The term is preferred over 'child abuse' in clinical documentation...
- Posterior rib fracture
- A fracture at the posterior rib near the costotransverse junction. Produced by forceful anteroposterior chest compression (as in squeezing), not by simple...
- Skeletal survey
- A full radiographic series of the skeleton (AP skull, lateral skull, chest, spine, pelvis, and all long bones) performed in suspected NAI...
Explained in
- Child Abuse and Non-Accidental Injury RecognitionIntracranial injury resulting from violent shaking, with or without impact. Findings include subdural haematoma, subarachnoid haemorrhage, diffuse axonal injur...