title: The battered child syndrome: a forensic pathologist's viewpoint.
abstract: Most evidence in child abuse cases is circumstantial, and thus the main thrust of the defense is to create doubt, by arguing that the child did not die as a result of being beaten, or by arguing lack of intent. The pathologist will be most helpful to the case if he can give a strong opinion backed by scientific conclusions. A painstakingly detailed autopsy protocol will be of value.
mesh_terms: D000007:Abdominal Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D000293:Adolescent; D001344:Autopsy; D001497:Battered Child Syndrome; D002543:Cerebral Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D005554:Forensic Medicine; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D012253:Rib Fractures; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology