Erythema Multiforme: Confusion with Child Battering Syndrome

Abstract

A diagnosis of battered child syndrome has important psychological and social ramifications beyond the medical realm and should not be taken lightly. In fact, most states require the physician to report suspected cases of child abuse. This has led to increased awareness of the condition but also to occasional overdiagnosis. Reports in the literature have identified some of the diseases that mimic the battered child syndrome1,2 This report describes another such condition that can be so classified: erythema multiforme (EM) lesions which progress to ecchymotic lesions, a common disease with an unusual presentation. CASE REPORTS Case 1 A 22-month-old male infant was seen in the emergency room (ER) with bruises on the abdomen.