The abused child

Abstract

Introduction: Studies on battered/abused children have so far been either of local scope or mere case studies which reach the public through the media. Still, they seem to be just the «tiny tip» of the iceberg of the actual prevalence of child abuse. This theme review also aims to raise the awareness of health professionals of a problem that is still underdiagnosed in this country. Methods: Articles published in the past five years were selected from Medline. Textbooks and recent scientific journals were also looked up to organise knowledge and provide grounding for action plans. Review: An historical and sociological approach to the theme is used. The clinical features of the various types of child abuse are extensively described, and a broad range of hints to child abuse is presented. Finally, adequate action plans to approach abused children and abusing families are dealt with. Conclusion: Our communities have to be made aware that child abuse is indeed a crime. Every health professional directly involved in a case of child abuse should feel responsible for the resolution of this rather complex problem. Family doctors, as health providers working close to the community, can and should take up a major role in the prevention of this social ill.