NCJ Number
238783
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 62 Issue: 3 Dated: May - June 2012 Pages: 204-214
Date Published
June 2012
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article discusses Hemascein to detect latent bloodstains.
Abstract
Some of the most common tests for the detection of latent bloodstains include luminol, Bluestar, and fluorescein. Hemascein is a relatively new fluorescein-based method that uses the chemiluminescent reaction between fluorescein and the heme to detect latent blood. At present, few studies have assessed the sensitivity and reliability of Hemascein. The current experiment attempted to address this issue. Human blood concentrations (neat, 1:10, 1:100, 1:1,000, 1:10,000, 1:100,000, 1:1,000,000) were deposited on a variety of surfaces (linoleum, wood paneling, whiteboard, porcelain tile, and carpet) and then tested with Hemascein. The authors observed Hemascein to react with the greatest reliability on blood dilution ranges of 1:1,000 to 1:100,000. Hemascein was found to be most sensitive and reliable on light-colored, smooth, flat surfaces. It was also reliable and sensitive to neat (1:1) and 1:10 dilutions of blood on dark carpet. A benefit of Hemascein is the relatively few chemical safety issues associated with its use. A drawback is a high degree of background staining if sprayed improperly. Experimental work to assess the effect of Hemascein on subsequent DNA analysis is recommended. (Published Abstract)