First rib fractures in abused infants: a report of three cases

Clin Pediatr (Phila). 2012 May;51(5):426-30. doi: 10.1177/0009922811430343. Epub 2011 Dec 8.

Abstract

The authors describe 4 first rib fractures in 3 infants, highlighting the difficulty in detecting first rib fractures on skeletal survey. All 4 fractures were the result of physical abuse. A literature search does not find a case of first rib fracture in a healthy infant that is not the result of child abuse. The diagnosis of first rib fracture in an infant should prompt a thorough medical and social evaluation for child abuse.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child Abuse / diagnosis*
  • Delayed Diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Rib Fractures / diagnosis*
  • Rib Fractures / etiology