Still, it is possible that an event of pediatric abusive head trauma could result in a cerebral palsy diagnosis. Cerebral palsy is a cluster of symptoms that can be diagnosed from a myriad of onsets. Thinking about the long term, pediatric abusive head trauma can cause learning disabilities, fine and gross motor delays, speech delays, cerebral palsy, seizures, and cognitive impairments. It can also cause issues with your frontal cortex, which is cause and effect, working memory, reading comprehension, and other things that come much later down the developmental trajectory. Loss of oxygen means long-term damage to cells within the brain, which can result in a lack of weight gain, growth restriction, and ongoing respiratory concerns. The initial cerebral impact can stop oxygen during shaking or other abusive interactions. PAHT and Cerebral FunctioningĪnimal simulations of pediatric abusive head trauma have highlighted a clear connection between subdural hematomas and oxygen loss that occur during shaking or other abusive interventions. They may not have a diagnosis of pediatric abusive head trauma or even some symptoms, but what is the likelihood of some spinal damage that may result in low muscle tone, frustration, or increased pain response? Because of this study, we know that it's highly possible and likely that roughly cared-for babies may experience neck and spinal injuries before any neurological impact or PAHT. Of the 131 mannequins in the crash simulations, 96% met the criteria for a spinal injury, while only 22% met pediatric abusive head trauma criteria.Īs a clinician, I am now much more curious about my kiddos, who I know were involved in stressful early caregiving experiences.
What are possible signs and symptoms of pediatric abusive head trauma (PAHT)? AnswerĮ there's no humane way to test pediatric abusive head trauma, the study took car crash mannequins and looked at the force of impact on the spine and the brain.