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Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing in Suspected Child Sexual Abuse

NCJ Number
238255
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 20 Issue: 6 Dated: November-December 2011 Pages: 612-621
Author(s)
Debra Esernio-Jenssen; Marilyn Barnes
Date Published
December 2011
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article discusses diagnotic tests for children suspected of being sexually abused.
Abstract
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that site-specific cultures be obtained, when indicated, for sexually victimized children. Nucleic acid amplification testing is a highly sensitive and specific methodology for identifying sexually transmitted infections. Nucleic acid amplification tests are also less invasive than culture, and this may provide an efficacious alternative for children suspected of being sexually abused. (Published Abstract)