| Medical Encyclopedia: Battered Child Syndrome: Causes and symptoms |
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More about Battered Child Syndrome:
Definition Causes and symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Prognosis Prevention Resources |
Battered child syndrome (BCS) is found at every level of society, although the incidence may be higher in low-income households where adult caregivers suffer greater stress and social difficulties, without having had the benefit of higher education. The child abuser most often injures a child in the heat of anger, and was often abused as a child himself. The incessant crying of an infant or child may trigger abuse. Symptoms may include a delayed visit to the emergency room with an injured child; an implausible explanation of the cause of a child's injury; bruises that match the shape of a hand, fist or belt; cigarette burns; scald marks; bite marks; black eyes; unconsciousness; bruises around the neck; and a bulging fontanel in infants.
— Mary Jane Tenerelli
