Sexual Abuse

 

• The only positive vaginal culture that is DEFINITIVE confirmation of sexual abuse is Neisseria gonorrhea.
  • Vertically transmitted Chlamydia may persist for up to 3 years (does not confirm abuse in children <3yrs)
  • Syphilis may also be present due to vertical transmission (often presents as secondary syphilis)
  • Trichomonas can also be transmitted perinatally and may persist for 6-9 months. 
    • However, it has NOT been found in children >1 year without history of sexual contact.

• Remember that CULTURES need to be sent for GC and Chlamydia.  DNA probes and nonculture methods are NOT recommended in this age group for evaluation of potential sexual abuse.