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Natural Disease May Mimic Child Abuse

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Skeletal Atlas of Child Abuse

Part of the book series: Springer’s Forensic Laboratory Science Series ((SFLSS))

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Abstract

The skeletal system, one of the ten major organ systems of the human body, is integral to routine body functions. The bones, tendons, and ligaments provide support, protection of visceral organs, and leverage for movement. The bones of the skeleton also store and release necessary minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, into the bloodstream. Because of the skeleton’s participation in these vital functions, natural disease conditions that significantly affect the health, growth, and development of the soft tissues frequently also produce a pathologic skeletal response. Bone reactions to the stresses of premature birth, various disease syndromes, and genetic and congenital disorders can be seen grossly on the postmortem pediatric skeletal examination. Bone involvement in natural disease frequently is observed as osteopenia, osteoporosis, or osteomalacia, although certain syndromes produce a hyperostotic (proliferative) cortical bone response.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Forensic Anthropology Division, Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, Houston, Texas, USA

    Jennifer C. Love PhD (Forensic Anthropology Director), Sharon M. Derrick PhD (Agency Coordinator/Forensic Anthropologist) & Jason M. Wiersema PhD (Forensic Anthropologist/Disaster Preparedness Coordinator)

Authors
  1. Jennifer C. Love PhD
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  2. Sharon M. Derrick PhD
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  3. Jason M. Wiersema PhD
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Correspondence to Jennifer C. Love PhD .

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Love, J.C., Derrick, S.M., Wiersema, J.M. (2011). Natural Disease May Mimic Child Abuse. In: Skeletal Atlas of Child Abuse. Springer’s Forensic Laboratory Science Series. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-61779-216-8_7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-61779-216-8_7

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  • Publisher Name: Humana Press

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-61779-215-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-61779-216-8

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