The black and white truth about domestic violence

The radiological findings of child abuse have been a focus of radiological education. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant health burden; however, this is not frequently illustrated in the radiology literature. Health care providers play a crucial role in screening, treating, and preventing future acts of domestic violence. Radiologists in particular are in a unique position in cases of domestic violence, unbiased by interaction with the victim and potentially the abuser. Head and neck injuries are the most common; however, any part of the body is at risk for injury in cases of domestic violence. Fostering awareness of domestic violence and familiarizing radiologists with the most common imaging findings of IPV can help these specialists make the proper diagnosis and improve patient care.