1
|
Genital and Extragenital Gonorrhea and Chlamydia in Children and Adolescents Evaluated for Sexual Abuse. Pediatr Emerg Care 2018; 34:761-766. [PMID: 28072668 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000001014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the use of a nucleic acid amplification test in detecting genital and extragenital Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) in children and adolescents assessed for sexual abuse/assault. METHODS The charts of children aged 0 to 17 years, consecutively evaluated for sexual victimization, in emergency department and outpatient settings were reviewed. Data extracted included age, sex, type of sexual contact, anogenital findings, previous sexual contact, toxicology results, and sites tested for NG and CT. RESULTS Of the 1319 patients who were tested, 579 were tested at more than 1 site, and 120 had at least 1 infected site. Chlamydia trachomatis was identified in 104 patients, and NG was found in 33. In bivariate analysis, a positive test was associated with female sex, age older than 11 years, previous sexual contact, acute or healed genital injury, drug/alcohol intoxication, and examination within 72 hours of sexual contact. Fifty-one patients had positive anal tests, and 24 had positive oral tests. More than 75% of patients with positive extragenital tests had additional positive tests or anogenital injury. Most with a positive anal (59%) or oral (77%) test did not report that the assailant's genitals came into contact with that site. CONCLUSIONS Positive tests for NG and CT in patients evaluated for sexual victimization may represent infection from sexual contact, contiguous spread of infection, or the presence of infected assailant secretions. Relying on patient reports of symptoms, or types of sexual contact, to determine need for testing may miss NG and CT infections in patients evaluated for sexual victimization.
Collapse
|
2
|
Goldberg AP, Moore JL, Houck C, Kaplan DM, Barron CE. Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Patients: A Retrospective Analysis of Medical Presentation. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2017; 30:109-115. [PMID: 27575407 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2016.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Revised: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To describe the clinical characteristics of patients referred for domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST) to improve identification and intervention. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING The Lawrence A. Aubin, Sr Child Protection Center at Hasbro Children's Hospital where patients are evaluated by child abuse pediatricians in outpatient, emergency department, and inpatient settings. PARTICIPANTS A total of 41 patients younger than the age of 18 years referred for the evaluation of DMST involvement between August 1, 2013 and March 30, 2015. INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We collected demographic, social-environmental, medical, and psychiatric variables from the medical records of patients referred for evaluation who have self-disclosed, been reported with evidence, and/or have histories that place them at high risk for DMST involvement. RESULTS Children had frequent contact with medical providers, with 81% seen in the year before referral for DMST. Childhood maltreatment and family dysfunction were identified (sexual abuse, 21/37 or 57%; parental substance abuse, 22/37 or 60%) in the 41 patients. Children had medical problems (eg, sexually transmitted infection, 13/41 or 32%), psychiatric needs (eg, acute suicidality, 8/41 or 20%; at least 1 previous psychiatric admission, 19/41 or 46%), and substance use (36/41 or 88%). Although 26/41 (63%) had runaway and 17/41 (42%) lived in a group home placement, 28/41 (68%) currently lived at home and 29/41 (71%) presented with a parent/guardian or relative. CONCLUSION Children referred for DMST present frequently to physicians and have complex medical and psychiatric needs. Medical providers' increased awareness of this health issue would inform victim identification and intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy P Goldberg
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island.
| | | | - Christopher Houck
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island; Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Dana M Kaplan
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Christine E Barron
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lin YH, Huang HC, Hung CH, Lu YC, Jiang BJ, Chou YW, Lee SH, Liao CH. Increased incidences of multidrug-resistant gonorrhea in Taiwanese men: Experiences from a single institute. UROLOGICAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urols.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
|
4
|
Meyer T, Püschel K, Seifert D. Diagnostik sexuell übertragbarer Infektionen. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-014-0992-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
5
|
Dubowitz H, Christian CW, Hymel K, Kellogg ND. Forensic medical evaluations of child maltreatment: a proposed research agenda. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2014; 38:1734-1746. [PMID: 25224781 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2014.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Physicians play an important role in the forensic evaluation of suspected child abuse and neglect. There has been considerable progress in the medical field, helping distinguish findings related to maltreatment from other conditions or circumstances. Nevertheless, important questions remain. This article covers several of these questions and proposes a research agenda concerning five main topics: sexual abuse, neglect, fractures, abusive head trauma, and physicians work in interdisciplinary settings. The suggestions are hardly inclusive, but offer suggestions the authors think are priorities, and ones that research could reasonably address. By providing some background to gaps in our knowledge, this paper should be of interest to a broader audience than just medical professionals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cindy W Christian
- The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Nancy D Kellogg
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hertweck P, Yoost J. Common problems in pediatric and adolescent gynecology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eog.10.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
7
|
Baron EJ, Miller JM, Weinstein MP, Richter SS, Gilligan PH, Thomson RB, Bourbeau P, Carroll KC, Kehl SC, Dunne WM, Robinson-Dunn B, Schwartzman JD, Chapin KC, Snyder JW, Forbes BA, Patel R, Rosenblatt JE, Pritt BS. A guide to utilization of the microbiology laboratory for diagnosis of infectious diseases: 2013 recommendations by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the American Society for Microbiology (ASM)(a). Clin Infect Dis 2013; 57:e22-e121. [PMID: 23845951 PMCID: PMC3719886 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cit278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 306] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Accepted: 04/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The critical role of the microbiology laboratory in infectious disease diagnosis calls for a close, positive working relationship between the physician and the microbiologists who provide enormous value to the health care team. This document, developed by both laboratory and clinical experts, provides information on which tests are valuable and in which contexts, and on tests that add little or no value for diagnostic decisions. Sections are divided into anatomic systems, including Bloodstream Infections and Infections of the Cardiovascular System, Central Nervous System Infections, Ocular Infections, Soft Tissue Infections of the Head and Neck, Upper Respiratory Infections, Lower Respiratory Tract infections, Infections of the Gastrointestinal Tract, Intraabdominal Infections, Bone and Joint Infections, Urinary Tract Infections, Genital Infections, and Skin and Soft Tissue Infections; or into etiologic agent groups, including Tickborne Infections, Viral Syndromes, and Blood and Tissue Parasite Infections. Each section contains introductory concepts, a summary of key points, and detailed tables that list suspected agents; the most reliable tests to order; the samples (and volumes) to collect in order of preference; specimen transport devices, procedures, times, and temperatures; and detailed notes on specific issues regarding the test methods, such as when tests are likely to require a specialized laboratory or have prolonged turnaround times. There is redundancy among the tables and sections, as many agents and assay choices overlap. The document is intended to serve as a reference to guide physicians in choosing tests that will aid them to diagnose infectious diseases in their patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Jo Baron
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Leder MR, Leber AL, Marcon MJ, Scribano PV. Use of APTIMA Combo 2: the experience of a child advocacy center. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2013; 22:297-311. [PMID: 23590351 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2013.743954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends nucleic acid amplification testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea in sexually abused girls. No studies describe performance of APTIMA Combo 2 Assay with second target confirmation on the same testing platform. This nucleic acid amplification testing is evaluated within a large child advocacy center. Girls 3 to 18 years, 35% of whom reported consensual sexual activity, were prospectively tested by APTIMA Combo 2 on urine/vaginal swabs and by vaginal culture. A case of infection was defined as positive culture or positive urine or vaginal swab nucleic acid amplification testing with second target confirmation. Sensitivity of APTIMA Combo 2 on urine was found to be superior to vaginal culture and comparable to APTIMA Combo 2 on vaginal swabs for both infections. APTIMA Combo 2 on urine is less invasive, and its use may be preferred in this traumatized population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Ranee Leder
- Center for Family Safety and Healing, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio 43205, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Evaluating Sexually Transmitted Infections in Sexually Abused Children: New Techniques to Identify Old Infections. CLINICAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpem.2012.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
10
|
Abstract
Acute sexual assault includes a broad spectrum of nonconsensual sexual activity. Care of victims of acute sexual assault can be challenging, especially given the significant potential psychological and legal ramifications of the event and subsequent medical care and forensic evidence collection. In some emergency department settings, utilization of sexual assault response teams and sexual assault nurse examiners has demonstrated that a systematic approach to these patients improves care. However, given that victims of acute sexual assault are likely to present for care in emergency departments where such teams do not exist, it is critical for the emergency medicine physician, pediatrician, and family physician to have knowledge of key aspects of history taking, the physical examination, evidence collection, and medical record documentation. This review of care of the victim of acute sexual assault will provide practitioners with the tools needed to effectively evaluate these patients.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Child sexual abuse is a common pediatric problem that concerns all pediatric health care providers. Management of child sexual abuse is multifaceted and multidisciplinary. Specialized health providers can provide consultation, but this availability does not minimize the role of the referring physician who often has ongoing contact with the family. Physicians are mandated to report cases of suspected or confirmed sexual abuse. In the majority of cases, a child’s statement about sexual abuse is the strongest evidence that abuse has occurred. Physical examination is normal in the majority of sexual abuse victims. Accurate, evidence-based interpretation of physical and laboratory findings is essential. Normal examinations, normal variants, and findings indicative of sexual contact must be differentiated. Forensic evidence collection and prophylactic treatments may be indicated when patients present within 72 hours of an abusive episode, and patients should be triaged accordingly. Potentially negative psychosocial outcomes should be addressed for patients and their families on initial evaluation and follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Fortin
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hammerschlag MR, Gaydos CA. Guidelines for the use of molecular biological methods to detect sexually transmitted pathogens in cases of suspected sexual abuse in children. Methods Mol Biol 2012; 903:307-17. [PMID: 22782828 PMCID: PMC4117404 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-937-2_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in children presents a number of problems for the practitioner that are not usually faced when testing adults for the same infections. The identification of an STI in a child, in addition to medical implications, can have serious legal implications. The presence of an STI is often used to support the presence or allegations of sexual abuse and conversely, the identification of an STI in a child will prompt an investigation of possible abuse. The significance of the identification of a sexually transmitted agent in such children as evidence of possible child sexual abuse varies by pathogen.While culture has historically been used for the detection of STIs in cases of suspected abuse in children, the increasing use of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) in adults and the increasing proliferation of second-generation tests with better sensitivity and specificity has made inroads into the use of such tests in children, especially for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Acceptance by the medicolegal system for sexual abuse cases is still controversial and more test cases will be necessary before definitive use becomes standard practice. In addition, if these assays ever become legally admissible in court, there will be recommendations that more than one NAAT assay be used in order to assure confirmation of the diagnostic result.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret R Hammerschlag
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
|
14
|
Esernio-Jenssen D, Barnes M. Nucleic acid amplification testing in suspected child sexual abuse. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2011; 20:612-621. [PMID: 22126105 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2011.622356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
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.
Collapse
|
15
|
Harkins AL, Munson E. Molecular Diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Chlamydia trachomatis in the United States. ISRN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2011; 2011:279149. [PMID: 21822498 PMCID: PMC3148448 DOI: 10.5402/2011/279149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia, with its Chlamydia trachomatis etiology, is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the United States and is often transmitted via asymptomatic individuals. This review summarizes traditional and molecular-based diagnostic modalities specific to C. trachomatis. Several commercially available, FDA-approved molecular methods to diagnose urogenital C. trachomatis infection include nucleic acid hybridization, signal amplification, polymerase chain reaction, strand displacement amplification, and transcription-mediated amplification. Molecular-based methods are rapid and reliable genital specimen screening measures, especially when applied to areas of high disease prevalence. However, clinical and analytical sensitivity for some commercial systems decreases dramatically when testing urine samples. In vitro experiments and clinical data suggest that transcription-mediated amplification has greater analytical sensitivity than the other molecular-based methods currently available. This difference may be further exhibited in testing of extragenital specimens from at-risk patient demographics. The development of future molecular testing could address conundrums associated with confirmatory testing, medicolegal testing, and test of cure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- April L Harkins
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hammerschlag MR, Guillén CD. Medical and legal implications of testing for sexually transmitted infections in children. Clin Microbiol Rev 2010; 23:493-506. [PMID: 20610820 PMCID: PMC2901660 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00024-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in children presents a number of problems for the practitioner that are not usually faced when testing adults for the same infections. The identification of an STI in a child can have, in addition to medical implications, serious legal implications. The presence of an STI is often used to support the presence or allegations of sexual abuse, and conversely, the identification of an STI in a child will prompt an investigation of possible abuse. The purpose of this paper is to review the epidemiology of child sexual abuse, including the epidemiology of major STIs including Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, syphilis, herpes simplex virus (HSV), Trichomonas vaginalis, and human papillomavirus, and the current recommendations for diagnostic testing in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret R Hammerschlag
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, 450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203-2098, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Sexual abuse is unfortunately common in the United States. The presence of a sexually transmitted infection in a child or adolescent should prompt an evaluation to exclude sexual abuse. RECENT FINDINGS The present article reviews the demographics of sexual abuse, the prevalence of specific sexually transmitted infections, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, HIV, human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) and which children and adolescents are at highest risk for contracting such infections. The use of nonculture methods, such as nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), to evaluate prepubertal children for N. gonorrhoeae or C. trachomatis, and the use of HIV postexposure prophylaxis are discussed. SUMMARY Any child or adolescent with a sexually transmitted infection should be evaluated for sexual abuse. Specific infections in prepubertal children, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis, are due to abusive contact and should be reported to Child Protective Services. As the modes of transmission of anogenital infections with HPV and HSV are unclear, an evaluation for sexual abuse should be done. Although transmission of HIV after sexual abuse is rare, HIV postexposure prophylaxis must be administered in a timely fashion, and adequate outpatient support provided to facilitate compliance and follow-up.
Collapse
|
18
|
Black CM, Driebe EM, Howard LA, Fajman NN, Sawyer MK, Girardet RG, Sautter RL, Greenwald E, Beck-Sague CM, Unger ER, Igietseme JU, Hammerschlag MR. Multicenter study of nucleic acid amplification tests for detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in children being evaluated for sexual abuse. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2009; 28:608-13. [PMID: 19451856 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0b013e31819b592e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections in children suspected of sexual abuse is challenging due to the medico-legal implications of test results. Currently, the forensic standard for diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections is culture. In adults, nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are superior to culture for CT, but these tests have been insufficiently evaluated in pediatric populations for forensic purposes. METHODS We evaluated the use of NAATs, using urine and genital swabs versus culture for diagnosis of CT and NG in children evaluated for sexual abuse in 4 US cities. Urine and a genital swab were collected for CT and NG NAATs along with routine cultures. NAAT positives were confirmed by PCR, using an alternate target. RESULTS Prevalence of infection among 485 female children were 2.7% for CT and 3.3% for NG by NAAT. The sensitivity of urine NAATs for CT and NG relative to vaginal culture was 100%. Eight participants with CT-positive and 4 with NG-positive NAATs had negative culture results (P = 0.018 for CT urine NAATs vs. culture). There were 24 of 485 (4.9%) female participants with a positive NAAT for CT or NG or both versus 16 of 485 (3.3%) with a positive culture for either, resulting in a 33% increase in children with a positive diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that NAATs on urine, with confirmation, are adequate for use as a new forensic standard for diagnosis of CT and NG in children suspected of sexual abuse. Urine NAATs offer a clear advantage over culture in sensitivity and are less invasive than swabs, reducing patient trauma and discomfort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M Black
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Girardet RG, Lahoti S, Howard LA, Fajman NN, Sawyer MK, Driebe EM, Lee F, Sautter RL, Greenwald E, Beck-Sagué CM, Hammerschlag MR, Black CM. Epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections in suspected child victims of sexual assault. Pediatrics 2009; 124:79-86. [PMID: 19564286 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2008-2947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to describe the epidemiology of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, Treponema pallidum, HIV, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection diagnosed by culture or by serologic or microscopic tests and by nucleic acid amplification tests in children who are evaluated for sexual victimization. METHODS Children aged 0 to 13 years, evaluated for sexual victimization, who required sexually transmissible infection (STI) testing were enrolled at 4 US tertiary referral centers. Specimens for N gonorrhoeae and C trachomatis cultures, wet mounts for detection of T vaginalis, and serologic tests for syphilis and HIV were collected and processed according to study sites' protocols. Nucleic acid amplification tests for C trachomatis and N gonorrhoeae and serologic tests for HSV-2 were performed blinded to other data. RESULTS Of 536 children enrolled, 485 were female. C trachomatis was detected in 15 (3.1%) and N gonorrhoeae in 16 (3.3%) girls. T vaginalis was identified in 5 (5.9%) of 85 girls by wet mount, 1 (0.3%) of 384 children had a positive serologic screen for syphilis, and 0 of 384 had serologic evidence of HIV infection. Of 12 girls who had a specimen for HSV-2 culture, 5 (41.7%) had a positive result; 7 (2.5%) of 283 had antibody evidence of HSV-2 infection. Overall, 40 (8.2%) of 485 girls and 0 of 51 boys (P = .02) had >or=1 STI. Girls with vaginal discharge were more likely to test positive for an STI (13 [24.5%] of 53) than other girls (27 [6.3%] of 432; prevalence ratio = 3.9; P < .001), although 10 girls with STIs had normal physical examinations. Most girls (27 [67.5%]) with a confirmed STI had normal or nonspecific findings on anogenital examination. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of each STI among sexually victimized children is <10%, even when highly sensitive detection methods are used. Most children with STIs have normal or nonspecific findings on physical examination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca G Girardet
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas-Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Clinical Validation of a Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Detection of Neisseria gonorrheae porA Pseudogene Versus Culture Techniques. Sex Transm Dis 2008; 35:517-20. [DOI: 10.1097/olq.0b013e3181644bc9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
21
|
Fung M, Scott KC, Kent CK, Klausner JD. Chlamydial and gonococcal reinfection among men: a systematic review of data to evaluate the need for retesting. Sex Transm Infect 2007; 83:304-9. [PMID: 17166889 PMCID: PMC2598678 DOI: 10.1136/sti.2006.024059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to systematically review and describe the evidence on chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfection among men, and to evaluate the need for retesting recommendations in men. PubMed and STI conference abstract books from January 1995 to October 2006 were searched to identify studies on chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfection among men using chlamydia and gonorrhoea nucleic acid amplification tests or gonorrhoea culture. Studies were categorised as using either active or passive follow-up methods. The proportions of chlamydial and gonococcal reinfection among men were calculated for each study and summary medians were reported. Repeat chlamydia infection among men had a median reinfection probability of 11.3%. Repeat gonorrhoea infection among men had a median reinfection probability of 7.0%. Studies with active follow-up had moderate rates of chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfection among men, with respective medians of 10.9% and 7.0%. Studies with passive follow-up had higher proportions of both chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfections among men, with respective medians of 17.4% and 8.5%. Proportions of chlamydia and gonorrhoea reinfection among men were comparable with those among women. Reinfection among men was strongly associated with previous history of sexually transmitted diseases and younger age, and inconsistently associated with risky sexual behaviour. Substantial repeat chlamydia and gonorrhoea infection rates were found in men comparable with those in women. Retesting recommendations in men are appropriate, given the high rate of reinfection. To optimise retesting guidelines, further research to determine effective retesting methods and establish factors associated with reinfection among men is suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Fung
- Wellesley College, 21 Wellesley College Road, Unit 4633, Wellesley, MA 02481-0246, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hjelmevoll SO, Olsen ME, Sollid JUE, Haaheim H, Unemo M, Skogen V. A fast real-time polymerase chain reaction method for sensitive and specific detection of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae porA pseudogene. J Mol Diagn 2007; 8:574-81. [PMID: 17065426 PMCID: PMC1876173 DOI: 10.2353/jmoldx.2006.060024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ever since the advent of molecular methods, the diagnostics of Neisseria gonorrhoeae has been troubled by false negative and false positive results compared with culture. Commensal Neisseria species and Neisseria meningitidis are closely related to N. gonorrhoeae and may cross-react when using molecular tests comprising too-low specificity. We have devised a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), including an internal amplification control, that targets the N. gonorrhoeae porA pseudogene. DNA was automatically isolated on a BioRobot M48. Our subsequent PCR method amplified all of the different N. gonorrhoeae international reference strains (n = 34) and N. gonorrhoeae clinical isolates (n = 176) but not isolates of the 13 different nongonococcal Neisseria species (n = 68) that we tested. Furthermore, a panel of gram-negative bacterial (n = 18), gram-positive bacterial (n = 23), fungal (n = 1), and viral (n = 4) as well as human DNA did not amplify. The limit of detection was determined to be less than 7.5 genome equivalents/PCR reaction. In conclusion, the N. gonorrhoeae porA pseudogene real-time PCR developed in the present study is highly sensitive, specific, robust, rapid and reproducible, making it suitable for diagnosis of N. gonorrhoeae infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stig Ove Hjelmevoll
- Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital of North Norway, 9038 Tromsø, Norway.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Shapiro RA, Makoroff KL. Sexually transmitted diseases in sexually abused girls and adolescents. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2006; 18:492-7. [PMID: 16932042 DOI: 10.1097/01.gco.0000242950.09997.ca] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The clinical evaluation for suspected child sexual abuse often includes sexually transmitted disease testing. In spite of the high prevalence of sexual abuse, however, most abused children will not have a sexually transmitted disease identified. The low prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases in this population requires special care by the clinician to exclude false-positive test results and to provide appropriate guidance to child protection workers. RECENT FINDINGS The likelihood of sexual transmission varies for specific infectious agents and the transmission of infectious agents such as human papillomavirus is complex. Concern about the low positive predictive value of many tests for sexually transmitted diseases in this population is again being demonstrated and clinicians are asked to be cautious in interpreting test results. SUMMARY Clinicians are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse. Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases may need to be delayed pending confirmatory testing of the initial results. HIV postexposure prophylaxis should be considered within hours of the exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Allan Shapiro
- Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children, Division of Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
AIM To describe the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in children and young people aged 0-17 years seen for suspected sexual abuse in Auckland, New Zealand. METHODS Retrospective review of consecutive medical records over a 7-year period from December 1991 to December 1998. RESULTS A total of 2162 children and young people had a genital examination related to concerns about possible sexual abuse, of whom 1909 (88.3%) had some form of screening test for STI. Sixty children and young people (2.8%) had STI, diagnosed either by examination, laboratory investigation, or both. The rate was 5.6% (43/770) in those aged 10 years or older and 1.2% (17/1392) in those aged under 10 years. CONCLUSION The prevalence of STI in children and young people referred for suspected sexual abuse is low but significant. Chlamydia and pelvic inflammatory disease were the most common infections. No STI was found in an asymptomatic pre-pubertal child.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Kelly
- Te Puaruruhau (Child Abuse Assessment Unit), Department of General Paediatrics, Starship Children's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | | |
Collapse
|