Munchausen syndrome by proxy: otolaryngologists beware!

Abstract

Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP) is a rare condition in which a parent or guardian fabricates an illness in a child either by inducing physical signs or prevaricating. A case presenting as recurrent episodes of infant apnoea is reported. A high index of suspicion is required for the diagnosis and, therefore, the otolaryngologist must be familiar with the condition if the life of the infant is to be protected and potentially harmful unnecessary investigations are to beavoided.