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Research Article| Volume 1, ISSUE 2, P123-127, 1988

Anogenital findings and hymenal diameter in children referred for sexual abuse examination

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      Abstract

      A retrospective chart review was done on all patients referred for sexual abuse examinations between July 1984 and April 1987. There were 140 patients: 116 girls and 24 boys, ages 1–16 years. Ten boys (41%) and 57 girls (49%) had abnormal anogenital findings consistent with molestation. The frequency of anogenital findings increased depending on the extent of manipulation alleged, from 39% for cases of fondling only to 74% with alleged penile vaginal penetration. Anal findings were seen in 57% of children alleging penile rectal penetration. Horizontal hymenal diameter increased according to age (1–5 years, mean = 0.54 cm; 6–9 years, 0.97 cm; 10–12 years, 1.17 cm) and, within each age group, according to degree of manipulation alleged (1.29 cm for penile penetration vs. 0.89 cm for fondling only in 6 to 9-year-olds). Normative data for hymenal diameter in nonabused children is still needed.

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