Age determination in refugee children.

BACKGROUND

For many refugees, an accurate age is not known and the age on their visa does not reflect their true age. This has implications for medical care, education, socialisation, and for legal reasons.

OBJECTIVE

A model for age assessment is suggested based on that of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health in London using basic demographics and a narrative account from the parent.

DISCUSSION: Age assessment is complex, as most of the physical and developmental parameters used for medical and legal purposes have been developed from research in particular climates, ethnicities and environments where there is good health and nutrition. X-rays or dental examination should not be necessary for all children of uncertain age.