Shaken Baby Syndrome: the current stage of knowledge
Abstract:
The neglect, abuse, or mistreatment of children represents a significant social concern, profoundly impacting individual health and development. Among the most fatal forms of child abuse is Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS), characterized by violent shaking or blunt force trauma to the head. Nonspecific symptoms, incomplete medical histories, and social controversies often lead to misdiagnosis and inadequate documentation, exacerbating the issue. Given that only severe cases are typically hospitalized, the documented cases of SBS likely represent only a fraction of the true prevalence. This article aims to present the current understanding of Shaken Baby Syndrome, shedding light on the gravity of this problem. An analysis of the literature reveals a notable gap in comprehending various aspects of the syndrome, particularly regarding the mechanisms of injury. Existing research offers divergent theories, one positing specific condition as necessary for inducing SBS symptoms, while other focuses solely on tremors as the causal factor for observed brain damage [1]. Further investigation is imperative to deepen our understanding of SBS mechanisms, facilitating quicker and more accurate diagnosis and enabling prompt implementation of appropriate treatment protocols.