Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy Abuse

Abstract

■ The difficulties in diagnosing Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy Abuse (MSbPA) are examined. ■ The perpetrators of MSbPA are usually the victim's primary care giver. ■ The warning signs of MSbPA include unexplained, prolonged and extraordinary illness with the signs and symptoms only being evident when the suspected perpetrator is present. ■ Confrontation, exclusion and covert video surveillance are all possible routes to gaining further evidence. ■ The problems associated with covert video surveillance are explored.