Citation

Orient JM. J. Am. phys. surg. 2005; 10(2): 45-50.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Association of American Physicians and Surgeons)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

If child abuse is suspected, a careful differential diagnosis must be done, after a nonthreatening medical interview—as opposed to a police interrogation—of the parents and caregivers. The physician should consider the possibility of a vaccine reaction. Fundus photography and levels of plasma ascorbic acid and whole-blood histamine are indicated (on admission, before vitamin repletion) as part of the medical workup and the forensic investigation.At autopsy, evidence of blunt head trauma should be sought with special care, and the neck and cervical cord should be carefully examined.

Convictions and lengthy prison terms for bereaved parents on incomplete evidence also signify deep trouble in the criminal justice system, which makes a mockery of the presumption of innocence. The need to prove a mens rea and to demonstrate guilt beyond a reasonable doubt have become empty pretenses in American jurisprudence.