Sexually transmitted diseases in abused children and adolescent and adult victims of rape: Review of selected literature

Sexual assault (defined as sexual relations with another person obtained th rough physical force, threat, or intimidation) of children includes genital fondling, photographing, or viewing for sexual gratification; exposure of the child to pornographic material or to adult sexual activity; and attempt ed or successful penetration of any of the child's orifices. The purpose of this investigation was to review the medical literature published since 19 88 that reported on the prevalence of particular sexually transmitted disea ses (STDs) in populations of sexually assaulted adults and adolescents and sexually abused children, as well as the prevalence of sexual abuse among c hildren who present with an STD. These data will be helpful for managing ca ses of sexual assault involving children, adolescents, or adults; estimatin g the risk of abuse among children with specific STDs; and identifying rese arch priorities in this area.