Shaken baby syndrome in Canada

The results of a 10-year retrospective chart review of cases of shaken baby syndrome (SBS) in Canada featured in this issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal present important lessons for the medical system, caregivers and society.

James King and colleagues reviewed charts for 364 children identified as having SBS in 11 pediatric tertiary care hospitals across Canada between 1988 and 1998. The authors found that nearly 20% of the children died, 55% had lasting neurologic injury and 65% had visual impairment. The authors also state that their study suggests that at least 40 cases of SBS occur in Canada every year, although this estimate represents "only the tip of the iceberg" because many cases are not detected.

The authors recommend more work be done to determine the true incidence rates of SBS, identify vulnerable children and develop and evaluate prevention strategies.

p. 155 Shaken baby syndrome in Canada: clinical characteristics and outcomes of hospital cases
-- W.J. King et al

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