The Implications Of Pediatric Genital Warts

Pediatric genital warts have serious implications in the medical, social and legal aspects. In children with pediatric genital warts several issues must be addressed including possible sexual abuse, vertical transmission from the mother and the chance of future development of ano-genital malignancies. For families these issues can produce a lot of anxiety.

The Medical Aspect

It is very important to have proper diagnosis of pediatric genital warts. If for any reason you question your primary care providers diagnosis then you should obtain a second consultation with someone who has expertise in diagnosing pediatric genital warts, some of these individuals include a child abuse specialist, a pediatric dermatologist and a pediatric gynecologist.

If a child has pediatric genital warts then a complete medical examination is necessary, including an examination of the anus and genitalia for any other signs of possible sexual abuse. Doctors should also conduct an examination for oral warts. Any warts should be documented and photographed. It is also important that doctor test for other sexually transmitted diseases as well.

The Social Aspect

If pediatric genital warts are present then a complete psychosocial assessment will have to be obtained including a family tree that shows who is living in the home with the child. Experts should explore the familial social risk factors including drug or alcohol concerns, domestic violence, past or current involvement with CPS, mental health issues and a history of child abuse or neglect.

It will also be necessary to explore the possibility of any past or present concerns regarding sexual abuse of any family member with the parent or guardian, especially the child who has pediatric genital warts. Experts will also want to get a behavioral history of the child, particularly any incidents of acting out sexual behaviors.

The Legal Aspect

All professionals, including pediatric nurse practitioners, are under child abuse reporting laws that require them to report concerns of suspected child abuse to the responsible authorities. Child abuse reporting laws go above those of the professionals' ethical responsibility to maintain their patients confidentiality. However, professionals are protected from criminal and civil liability when they report a suspected case of child abuse.

Because of the serious medical, social and legal implications of pediatric genital warts it is important that medical professional competently diagnose the condition in children, refer the child to an advocacy center or a child abuse specialist, understand the issues of child protection and properly report the suspected sexual abuse to proper authorities.