[Child abuse--a pediatric emergency?].

Many cases of child abuse mark the culmination of a complex psychosocial process and proceed in a chronic way. An acute intervention in these chronic cases is not only inefficient, but also counterproductive; only a careful evaluation by a multidisciplinary team that pays attention to all circumstances and a stepwise action following a generally agreed plan will meet with success. This type of proceeding applies especially for cases of chronic sexual abuse that originates from close family range. A model of the procedure is presented. Real emergencies in the contest of child abuse have therapeutic and diagnostic character. From a therapeutic point of view a child must be immediately protected from further violence and other deeds threatening his health. This strategy is especially indicated for infants and young children. An immediate intervention is also obligatory, if there is a suspicion of sexual abuse not longer than 72 h ago or if signs of physical abuse have to be documented.