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to the lower body. Patients with traumatic asphyxia usually present with
subconjunctival and upper body petechial hemorrhages, cyanosis, periorbital
edema, respiratory distress, altered mental status, and associated injuries.
The primary goal of treatment is to stabilize the patient and evaluate associated
injuries. The external appearance of a child with traumatic asphyxia is quite
impressive, but initial attention should be paid to the cardiopulmonary status.
Pulmonary contusions and hepatic injuries are commonly seen with traumatic
asphyxia, and CT scan is helpful in identifying head and abdominal injuries.
Because the most severe injuries cause immediate death, the prognosis is good for
any patient surviving the first few hours. Cutaneous manifestations will resolve
with time, and neurologic sequelae are rare.
Suggested Readings and Key References
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