Examination of sexually abused children.

The approach to the examination of sexually abused children differs from that of normal for sick children and also from that of adults who have been the victims of rape. While the physical and psychological welfare of the patient must be the prime concern, medico-legal aspects are equally important. In the interests of the patient the initial examination and subsequent management and follow-up should be done by those with specific skills and with the support of members of disciplines essential to the total management of the complex and not uncommon problem of sexual abuse in children.