Publication

Abstract : Physical Child abuse also known as Battered baby Syndrome (BBS) or Non Accidental Injury (NAI) occurs when the child suffers repetitive physical injuries by a parent or guardian. It can cause severe injuries to the children and even death. We report two autopsy cases in which both the children were brought dead in the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi by the guardians with no complaint of foul play. During autopsy the characteristic findings of physical abuse were found and were reported to the investigation officer. It led to the arrest of the guardians and legal proceedings were initiated. The western countries have developed a centralized reporting system for child abuse but the cases of physical and mental abuse of children mainly at their home from parents or guardian are highly under-reported in India. The authors intend to highlight the importance of interpreting such injuries not only during autopsy but also in clinical setups so that perpetrators of child abuse are not spared. The authors have given recommendations about the steps which could be taken to detect child abuse at an early stage and save the life of a child.