Evaluation of the sexually abused child, including the role of colposcopy.

The magnification and excellent lighting provided by the colposcope make it an excellent diagnostic tool when enhanced direct observation is required. What can be accomplished with this tool in a pediatric or adolescent patient depends upon the examiner understanding how to best perform the examination related to these age groups and knowing what they see. This article describes common techniques used in the examination of the young gynecologic patient and common normal and abnormal findings. This knowledge should be especially helpful to the practitioner who is called upon to perform a sexual abuse examination in this population.