Sexual violence against children and its aspects of relevance for health professionals: a clinical case report

Abstract

Introduction: Home violence, including sexual abuse, is considered a public health problem, once its prevalence is high. Objective: To demonstrate which symptoms and signs a health professional can find in a patient and link to ill-treatment, with emphasis on sexual abuse. Methods: Clinical case report of a female child with Kearn-Sayers syndrome victim of sexual abuse in home environment. Results: The patient showed atypical behavior for her age, with many yells and cries. She closed her mouth and denied any attempt to introduce a dental instrument on her mouth. Conclusion: Professionals can realize signs and symptoms presented by patients who are victims of ill-treatment/violence, due to the fact they behave differently than the regular standard behavior.