Shaken baby syndrome.

Fourteen cases of shaken baby syndrome seen between 1993 to 1997 at the Kaohsiung Medical College Hospital were reviewed. The common clinical presentations were seizure, respiratory problem and disturbed consciousness. The signs and symptoms of this form of head trauma were nonspecific. The findings may mimic infection, intoxication, seizure disorder or metabolic abnormalities. The CT scan is the most common diagnostic tool in cases of suspected shaken baby syndrome. The common CT findings were acute subdural hematoma followed by chronic subdural hematoma and subarachnoid hemorrhage. One infant died due to delay in seeking medical help. Five patients sustained significant morbidity which included developmental delay, seizure, motor deficit and visual impairment. Early recognition and prompt treatment were key to the overall success of case management. The incidence of shaken baby syndrome can be reduced through public awareness and education of the parents not to shake the baby.