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.