Abstract
Burns are a common injury in both abused and non-abused children, and the accurate diagnosis of abusive burns is important to ensure protection. This chapter will discuss the epidemiology and characteristics of abusive and accidental burns. The classification of burns as well as the different categories of burns – including thermal, radiant, chemical, and electrical burns – will also be reviewed and discussed in-depth. This chapter will explore the important history aspects to obtain and to aid in determining whether a burn is inflicted or accidental. The components of a burn scene investigation will be included. Other skin findings that can sometimes be confused with burns such as infections, cultural practices, and dermatitis will also be reviewed.
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Cantu, M.S., Kondis, J.S. (2020). Abusive Burns. In: Geffner, R., White, J.W., Hamberger, L.K., Rosenbaum, A., Vaughan-Eden, V., Vieth, V.I. (eds) Handbook of Interpersonal Violence and Abuse Across the Lifespan. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-62122-7_249-1
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