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Munchausen syndrome by proxy: otolaryngologists beware!

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

A. P. Bath ,
G. E. Murty  and
K. P. Gibbin
A. P. Bath
Affiliation:
(Nottingham)
G. E. Murty
Affiliation:
(Nottingham)
K. P. Gibbin*
Affiliation:
(Nottingham)
*
Mr. K. P. Gibbin, Department of Otolaryngology, University Hospital, Nottingham
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Abstract

Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP) is a rare condition in which a parent or guardian fabricates an illness in a child either by inducing physical signs or prevaricating. A case presenting as recurrent episodes of infant apnoea is reported. A high index of suspicion is required for the diagnosis and, therefore, the otolaryngologist must be familiar with the condition if the life of the infant is to be protected and potentially harmful unnecessary investigations are to beavoided.

Keywords

Munchausen Syndromeby proxyParent-child relationsInfant apnoea
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 107 , Issue 2 , February 1993 , pp. 151 - 152
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1993

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