Evaluating Sexually Transmitted Infections in Sexually Abused Children: New Techniques to Identify Old Infections

Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is an important component of the medical evaluation for sexually abused children. Selective screening of this population with culture or microscopy-based techniques has been the traditional approach, particularly in younger children who have a lower prevalence of STIs compared with adolescents. However, newer testing methodologies (nucleic acid amplification tests) that use noninvasively collected specimens enable more widespread screening in children. This article provides an updated review of recommended STI testing and interpretation in children who present with suspected sexual abuse, focusing on these emerging methodologies and the evidence to support their use.