Which condition is likely to cause a Subdural Hematoma in children?

A subdural hematoma occurs when blood collects between the dura mater and the surface of the brain, usually due to trauma. In children, particularly infants, one of the leading causes of subdural hematoma is shaken baby syndrome. This condition results from violent shaking, which can cause the brain to move back and forth rapidly within the skull. The abrupt movement can lead to tearing of the bridging veins in the brain, resulting in bleeding and subsequent formation of a subdural hematoma.

Shaken baby syndrome is associated not only with subdural hematomas but also with other serious injuries such as retinal hemorrhages and possible brain damage, making it a critical concern in pediatric care and child protection. The characteristics of this syndrome directly relate to the kinetic forces at play when shaking, which is particularly dangerous for infants whose heads are proportionally larger and whose neck muscles are not strong enough to provide adequate support.

Other options such as child neglect, exposure to toxins, and severe dehydration can have serious consequences for children's health and development, but they do not directly lead to the mechanical trauma necessary for the formation of a subdural hematoma. Therefore, the specific dynamics of shaken baby syndrome make it the most relevant condition associated with this type of hemat