How to Manage Suspected Child Abuse

Abstract

The skin is the organ most frequently exhibiting signs that may raise suspicion
of abuse. For this reason, dermatologists and pediatricians are often
called upon to assess whether certain cutaneous lesions are indicative of a
dermatological condition or suggest the possibility of abuse. Resolving this
diagnostic uncertainty is not always straightforward. Therefore, it is essential
that both dermatologists and pediatricians possess thorough knowledge of
dermatological disorders that may mimic signs of abuse. The author will describe
some of the most frequent and clinically significant conditions.