NCJ Number
227802
Journal
Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Dated: 2008 Pages: 15-21
Date Published
2008
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper proposes a standard operating procedure for collecting femur, rib, and tooth samples in order to obtain the best possible genotyping results to aid in victim identification after mass disasters and in single forensic investigations.
Abstract
The standard operating procedure (SOP) first lists preconditions that apply to all sample collections. They pertain to the cleanliness and isolation of the site of sample collection, type of personal protective equipment and clothing, DNA remover preparation, and what to do if an instrument or hand inadvertently touches an unclean area. The SOP for femur sample collection for DNA analysis outlines steps in preparations for femur sample excision, exposure of the femur before sample excision, and the processing of an excised femur wedge. The SOP for rib sample collection for DNA analysis addresses preparations for rib sample excision, the exposure of the rib before sample excision, and the processing of an excised rib sample. The SOP for tooth sample collection for DNA analysis focuses on preparations for tooth sample extraction and the processing of an extracted tooth specimen. The authors recommend using femur wedges instead of rib samples for DNA analysis. Because ribs have a very thin cortex and tend to protrude through the skin, the risk of contamination may be greater, especially for submerged corpses. The SOP for excision of a rib sample is described, because some countries insist on using rib samples for genotyping purposes. This is probably because spongy or cancellous bone can be rich in DNA. The authors further advise that directly after excision or extraction, the bone and tooth samples should be frozen. The proposed SOP was developed under disaster conditions and is based on common sense, theoretical knowledge, and best practice. 25 references