Clues that aid in the diagnosis of nonaccidental trauma presenting as an apparent life-threatening event.

Background: Apparent life-threatening events (ALTEs) can encompass many different diagnoses. Nonaccidental trauma (NAT) is one potential serious diagnosis.

Objective: (1) To identify key elements in the history and physical exam in infants presenting with an ALTE that aid in the subsequent diagnosis of NAT; and (2) to evaluate the role of diagnostic studies in these infants in confirming the diagnosis of NAT.