Which symptoms are indicative of shaken baby syndrome?

Prepare for the PAEA Pediatrics EOR Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The symptoms indicative of shaken baby syndrome, often referred to as abusive head trauma, typically include vomiting, irritability, and retinal hemorrhages. These manifestations arise due to the violent shaking of an infant, which can cause severe damage to the brain and other structures.

Vomiting is a common symptom as it can result from increased intracranial pressure or irritation of the brain due to trauma. Irritability in infants may present as excessive crying or difficulty being consoled, which can signal that the child is in distress or pain related to neurological injury. Retinal hemorrhages are particularly telling; they occur due to the acceleration-deceleration forces exerted on the fragile vessels in the infant's eyes during shaking. The presence of these retinal findings can be critical in the diagnosis of shaken baby syndrome.

Other options present symptoms that are not typically associated with shaken baby syndrome. Hypotonia and jaundice might indicate other conditions, such as metabolic disorders or liver issues. Seizures and high fever could point to various infections or neurological conditions but are not specific to shaken baby syndrome. A persistent cough and fever are more indicative of respiratory infections rather than abusive head trauma. Thus, option B aligns well with the classic triad of symptoms observed in cases

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