A stridulous, dysphonic cry with no external signs of trauma is a unique and unusual presenting sign for physical abuse. We report a previously healthy neonate with unremarkable birth history and medical history who presented with stridor and hypopharyngeal perforation due to physical abuse. This case highlights the need for further evaluation for traumatic injuries in the setting of unexplained new-onset stridor and consideration of physical abuse in the differential diagnosis.
Copyright © 2015 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.