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Asthma, allergy and sinopulmonary disease in pediatric condition falsification
- Authors:
- FELDMAN Kenneth W., STOUT James W., INGLIS Andrew F.
- Journal article citation:
- Child Maltreatment, 7(2), May 2002, pp.125-131.
- Publisher:
- Sage
Reports of pediatric condition falsification (PCF) have noted, but not emphasised, exaggerated complaints of real and common illnesses. Among the most frequent chronic childhood illnesses are asthma, allergy, drug sensitivity, and ear and sinopulmonary infections. The most common pediatric surgery is the insertion of myringotomy tubes. A computer database of 104 PCF victims from 68 families spanning from 1974-98 was searched for the frequency of these conditions. Outright falsification or extreme exaggeration of severity of asthma or allergies was noted in 52 children (50%), sinopulmonary infections in 50 (48%), and drug reactions or sensitivities in 30 (29%). Forty-five (43%) had otolaryngologic surgery, including ear tubes. In all, 71 children (68%) had at least one of these conditions. Associated victim and perpetrator characteristics are described. Children with PCF are not only subjected to induced illnesses and excessive medical, diagnostic and therapeutic efforts but also victimised by the consequences of false and exaggerated complaints of common pediatric diseases. Part of the focus section 'Munchausen by proxy'.