Often a child suspected of having an abusive head trauma (AHT) is referred by pediatricians to an ophthalmologist for evaluation. In such scenario, the ophthalmologist is responsible to document all the findings accurately and provide an opinion on the eye signs based on the clinical presentation and investigations of a multidisciplinary team. In this regard, The Royal College of Ophthalmologists has established guidelines that help to address these issues and offer recommendations on best practice. According to the guidelines, it is incumbent on any ophthalmologist involved with child maltreatment to: Be aware of the standards of assessment and documentation.
Follow local guidelines of the child safeguarding team. Be aware of current literature and the controversies Provide a balanced view on the interpretation of eye findings when requested to by legal services. After reviewing the…
