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Pages From Forensic Medicine &Toxicology - Dr.P.C. Ignatius (3)

General Examination of Rape Victim

Initial Findings

  • Avulsion of Head Hair: Significant loss of hair can indicate a struggle.

  • Swelling of Eyes: Possible signs of trauma or physical assault.

  • Nail Marks: Possible defense injuries from the victim.

Types of Injuries

  • Lacerations

  • Abrasions

  • Contusions

  • Graze Abrasions

General Injuries Observed

  • Abrasions, bruises, and/or lacerations on vulnerable body areas:

    • Face

    • Neck

    • Breasts

    • Inner Thighs

Swabs to be Collected

  1. Blood stain

  2. Seminal stain

  3. Bite marks

  4. Vaginal swab & smear

Important Collects

  • Vaginal Aspirate: Important for forensic analysis.

  • Loose Hair: Collect by combing the pubic region.

  • Blood Samples: For grouping, DNA, drugs/alcohol.

  • Urine Sample: For drug/alcohol testing.

  • Nail Scrapings: To recover potential evidence.

  • Foreign Material: May indicate struggle.

  • Cut Matting of Pubic Hair: Collect specimens.

Specific Observations

  • Graze Abrasions: Noted on back of the chest, elbows, heels, and knees.

  • Skin Injuries: Must be documented for evidence.

Local Examination of Injuries in a Rape Victim

Female Genital Examination

  • Detailed Observations:

    • Thighs: Check for abrasions, bruises, bite marks.

    • Clitoris: Look for abrasions and bruises.

    • Labia Minora: Check for laceration and bruising.

    • Labia Majora: Observe for redness, bruising, and any abrasions.

    • Hymen: Look for tears, especially on the posterior part.

    • Fourchette: Assess for laceration, trace tenderness, and bleeding.

    • Perineum: Look for lacerations.

    • Anus: Check for bruises and lacerations.

    • Fossa Navicularis: Assess for lacerations.

Examination of the Accused

Overview of Examination Protocol

  • Timeliness: Examination should not be delayed due to the rapid fading of physical evidence.

  • Identification Information: Name, age, address, occupation, and who brought the individual should be recorded.

  • Informed Consent: Must be obtained prior to examination, detailing what it entails.

  • Use of Reasonable Force: Allowed if consent is not given.

General Examination Protocol

  • Physical Measurements: Record the individual’s age, height, and weight.

  • Mental State Assessment: Document any signs of intoxication or drug influence.

  • Clothing Examination: Look for damage or biological stains, air dry and store properly.

  • Use of Wood's Lamp: Examine body areas where fluorescence is observed.

Injuries on the Accused

  • Documentation of Injuries: Notably abrasions, bruises, or nail marks due to struggle.

  • Genital Examination: Inspect for any noteworthy injuries: presence of scratches, bruises, or abrasions.

Smegma and Its Forensic Importance

  • Understanding Smegma: Presence indicates no penetration has taken place within 24 hours.

  • Sample Collection:

    • Penile Swab: Use two swabs (wet and dry) for testing.

    • Penile Wash: Conducted with saline for further microscopic analysis.

    • Lugol’s Iodine Test: Check for vaginal epithelial presence on the penis.

Specimen Collection from the Accused

  • Swabs from glands, prepuce, and shaft.

  • Penile washing using normal saline.

  • Collection of pubic hair and loose hair.

  • Nail clippings and scrapings.

  • Blood for grouping and DNA analysis.

  • Testing of blood and urine for alcohol or drugs.