The role of clinical forensic medicine in cases of sexual child abuse

The work of specialists in forensic medicine in those cases of child abuse that result in the killing of a child is defined and well known. It is less well defined in cases of (suspected) sexual abuse. The cases presented sho w the difficulties that arise if medical doctors and prosecutors are uncert ain about the procedures that have to be followed or do not appreciate the value of objective findings. It is concluded that knowledge about necessary examinations by physicians, police officers and prosecutors has to be prom oted in order to improve handling and (legal) outcome of these cases. (C) 1 999 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.