The majority of reported cases are diagnosed by primary care physicians who have been trained to recognized typical signs. In addition, it is a physician's duty to report any suspicious accidents or suspected abuse. This is where the pediatric dermatologist can play a significant role. No professional wants to falsely accuse a parent or any adult. Dermatologic conditions that may mimic child abuse, particularly those dermatoses that masquerade as sexual abuse, include bruises, scalding injuries or burns, and forcibly pulled hair.
Skin disease associated with nonabusive pathologic bone fractures can also mimic abuse.
Unfortunately, the reality is that child abuse is far more common than these mimickers. The American Academy of Dermatology is the world's largest organization of dermatologists. American Academy of Dermatology, 1999. All rights reserved. Produced by NetOn-Line Services .