Forensic medical evaluation of child sexual abuse cases

Abstract

Aims: Aim of this study was to emphasize the interdisciplinary communication and cooperation, and to determine the socio-demographic data of cases referred to the 2. Specialization Board of the State Institute of Forensic Medicine. Methods: Findings obtained from interview forms prepared according to structured interview methods, physical and genital examinations of 227 children among the ages of 0-18 referred to the 2. Specialization Board of the State Institute of Forensic Medicine in 2002 with the allegation of sexual abuse were evaluated. Results: The crime scene, socio-demographic features and findings obtained from physical and genital examinations were statistically examined and discussed according to the literature. Conclusions: The study indicates that interpretation of findings and evaluation of results will be more accurate if the cases would be examined and evaluated in a specialized unit as soon as possible. It is an obligation for our country to handle child abuse cases with a multidisciplinary approach, as soon as possible and in child-friendly examination units.