Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Which condition is primarily associated with Shaken Baby Syndrome?

1. Subdural hematoma

2. Brain contusion

3. Internal bleeding

4. Cerebral palsy

The correct answer is: Subdural hematoma

Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is primarily associated with subdural hematoma due to the violent shaking of an infant, which can cause the brain to move within the skull. This rapid motion can lead to tears in the blood vessels, resulting in bleeding in the space between the brain and the skull, known as the subdural space. Subdural hematomas are a key indicator of SBS because they occur in conjunction with other classic signs of the syndrome, such as retinal hemorrhages and signs of neurological impairment. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for proper diagnosis and intervention. While brain contusions, internal bleeding, and conditions like cerebral palsy may have their own associations with trauma or developmental issues, subdural hematoma is most closely linked to the specific mechanism of injury seen in Shaken Baby Syndrome.