Rib fractures in infancy, case-series and register case-control study from Sweden

Abstract Objectives To assess cases with rib fractures in infants under observation for or an abuse diagnosis, and to compare risk factors that but no diagnosis. Methods Design was case-series register case-control of (aged <1 year) fractures. Data clinical records the (n = 26) from national health registers case-controls 28 n 31). Outcome measures were maternal perinatal characteristics, reasons appointment, examination, diagnoses, blood tests, radiologic findings. Results The had a median age 70 days. A majority detected through skeletal survey investigation. Sixteen boys, three preterm six small-for-gestational age. Three carers noticed popping sound chest; showed signs pain at physical examination. Mean number 4.2, 24 callus. Bone mineralisation scarcely reported. Metabolic panel not uniformly analysed. 76 days, sharing such as overweight/obesity, male sex, prematurity, being Cases more often subdural haemorrhage, retinal long-bone fractures, controls neonatal morbidity, respiratory infection, fall accident. Detection fracture time major surgery 6) rickets/vitamin D deficiency 5) appeared both groups, delayed among cases. Conclusions Rib young infants, diagnosed abuse, are usually asymptomatic healing. substantial proportion metabolic factors, suggesting false positive