Characteristics and imaging diagnosis of pediatric head injury: Basic anatomical knowledge required for imaging interpretation

Abstract

Imaging diagnosis of pediatric head injuries is extremely important for identifying abusive head trauma (AHT). Although there has been much debate about the pathophysiology and diagnostic imaging of AHT, a consensus has not yet been established. In this review, to deepen our understanding of pediatric head injury including AHT, we describe the development and anatomy of the skull (particularly the calvarium and suture) and meninges (particularly the dural border cell layer). In addition, we discuss the pathogenesis and relationship between acute cerebral edema and subdural hematoma with special reference to neuronal excitotoxicity.