In the forensic investigation of a snakebite death, the Weil Felix test and ELISA are used to identify the species responsible. The MOST definitive forensic method for species identification from bite site tissue or blood when the snake is not available is:

• A Serum phospholipase A2 activity measurement
• B Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting snake mitochondrial cytochrome b gene ✓
• C Fang mark measurement and angle calculation
• D Thin-layer chromatography of bite site extract

Explanation

PCR targeting the snake mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (or 12S rRNA gene) from bite site swabs, saliva residue in the wound, or victim blood containing shed snake DNA can definitively identify the species to genus level without the snake being present. This has medico-legal significance in establishing liability and confirming cause of death. Phospholipase A2 activity is a venom component test, not species-specific. Fang mark geometry is suggestive but not definitive. TLC does not allow species identification.

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.