Medico-legal issues in detecting and proving the sexual abuse of children.

This article reviews the problem currently faced by medical and investigative personnel in detecting and proving the sexual molestation of children. The legal consequences of poor medical records are discussed. Various medical and legal issues that may present pitfalls for the examining physician are identified. The admissibility of various portions of the medical examination and report as evidence in courts of law is reviewed as well as newly emerging forensic tests and techniques for collecting medical evidence. A comprehensive summary of steps to be followed in the physical examination of a child sex abuse victim, emphasizing the importance of a strict, thorough procedure for protecting the interests of the patient, the physician and society is provided.