Positive Chlamydia Culture With Normal Ano-Genital Findings Following Single Incident of Incestuous Abuse

Abstract 

Since 1994 the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, has performed colposcopic examinations of children suspected of sexual abuse or assault. The institute serves an area with approximately 2.5 million inhabitants and performs 50–75 colposcopic examinations per year.

When indicated the children are tested for Chlamydia trachomatis. Vaginal samples are observed for growth in culture and DNA-amplification tests are performed. So far we have found only one positive culture. This was a now 11-yr-old girl who allegedly was assaulted once at the age of eight. The colposcopic examination showed normal ano-genital findings. The fact that the girl had tested positive for Chlamydia trachomatis is a strong indicator of abuse, and in the case of normal ano-genital findings, serves as an important evidential factor in court. In the future it may be possible to trace the infection to the alleged perpetrator by specific sub typing of Chlamydia Trachomatis.

Key Words: Children, Chlamydia, Sexual abuse