Vaginitis due to Gardnerella vaginalis and to Candida albicans in sexual abuse

Abstract

Sexually transmitted diseases may be transferred to children and adolescents during voluntary or involuntary sexual contact. Two children are reported with the unusual association of sexual abuse and Candida albicans or Gardnerella vaginalis infections. Awareness of the techniques for diagnosis of these infections is essential for appropriate management of the abused child. These organisms should not be considered normal flora when found in symptomatic children and adolescents and should raise the possibility of sexual abuse.