[Red flags for child abuse : Pediatric radiological and forensic aspects].

Clinical issue: The diagnostics of physical child abuse are usually performed by a multidisciplinary team and frequently represent a clinical challenge. Radiological expertise is particularly important for the recognition of abusive injuries to the skeletal system and the central nervous system. The aim of the article is to give an overview of red flags of child abuse in radiological imaging.

Imaging methods: For the diagnostics of child abuse, conventional projection radiography of the skeletal system as well as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head are especially relevant. There is insufficient evidence with respect to sonography.

Conclusion: Radiological imaging plays a key role for recognizing physical child abuse. Radiological red flags of child abuse can be crucial for making the diagnosis.