In a case of alleged rape, the medical examination is performed 72 hours after the alleged event. Which of the following findings would be MOST forensically significant at this time?

• A Presence of intact hymen
• B Absence of spermatozoa in vaginal wash
• C Absence of fresh lacerations of the posterior fourchette
• D Positive DNA profiling from vaginal swab ✓

Explanation

DNA profiling from vaginal swabs (identifying the perpetrator's DNA from spermatozoa or epithelial cells) remains the most significant forensic finding even at 72 hours, because spermatozoa can persist in the vaginal vault up to 72 hours (motile) and up to 5–7 days (non-motile heads). The hymen status is irrelevant to rape after puberty. Absence of spermatozoa at 72 hours is not diagnostically significant (may have used a condom, or aspermia). Fresh lacerations heal within 24–48 hours, so their absence at 72 hours is expected.

Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.