Forensic Evidence Findings in Prepubertal Victims of Sexual Assault

• DOI: 10.1542/peds.106.1.100
• Publication Date: 2004-08-13T23:50:41Z
• Authors: Cindy W. Christian; Jane M. Lavelle; Allan R. De Jong; John Loiselle; Lewis Brenner; Mark Joffe
• Keywords: Forensic examination; Sex organ; Sexual assault

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends forensic evidence collection when sexual abuse has occurred within 72 hours, or there is bleeding acute injury. It not known whether these recommendations are appropriate for prepubertal children, because few data exist regarding the utility in cases child assault. This study describes epidemiology findings victims assault.The medical records 273 children <10 years old who were evaluated hospital emergency departments Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and had processed by Philadelphia Police Criminalistics Laboratory retrospectively reviewed history, physical examination findings, collection, results.Some form was identified 24.9% all whom examined 44 hours their Over 90% with positive seen 24 majority (64%) found on clothing linens, yet only 35% collected analysis. After evidence, exception 1 pubic hair, recovered from linens. No swabs taken child's body blood after 13 sperm/semen 9 hours. A minority (23%) genital injuries. Genital injury a history ejaculation provided associated an increased likelihood identifying but several that unanticipated history.The general guidelines assault well-suited victims. decision to collect best made timing examination. Swabbing unnecessary Clothing linens yield should be pursued vigorously