Non-accidental Head Trauma

In cases of suspected child physical abuse, occult head injuries are a major concern, particularly in infants under 6 months of age.

A non-contrast head CT is the initial imaging of choice to evaluate for acute injuries. Subdural hematomas are the most frequently encountered extra-axial fluid collections in abusive head trauma.

Radiologists should also carefully assess for complex skull fractures, loss of gray-white matter differentiation, and bridging vein tears.