Dermatological Symptoms and Sexual Abuse: A Review and Case Reports

The document from 2000 reviews the link between dermatological symptoms and sexual abuse, outlining acute and long-term consequences, as well as the risk of misdiagnosis. It notes that acute consequences include genital injuries, psychological changes, and STDs, while long-term effects may manifest as psychosomatic skin diseases like factitious disorders. The review cites a study indicating that 33.8% of girls and 10.9% of boys aged 13 to 17 had experienced sexual abuse. It emphasizes the need for thorough medical examinations and the importance of considering sexual abuse in the differential diagnosis of skin conditions, as patients often present with comorbid psychiatric issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder. The document also discusses the prevalence of non-specific depression (83%) among long-term consequences of abuse and the necessity of a psychosomatic approach to treatment, including psychotherapy. Case reports, including one of a 46-year-old female with self-inflicted skin ulcerations due to past abuse, illustrate these points. The document concludes by highlighting the importance of sensitivity, thoroughness, and interdisciplinary collaboration in diagnosing and treating sexual abuse.