Forensic Serology Essay

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What is Forensic Serology?
Forensic Serology is the application of serology, the study of serums and bodily fluids (blood, semen, saliva, etc.), to detect, classify and show the relation to said fluids to a crime scene.
The fluids that investigators are looking for are: blood, semen, saliva, sweat, urine and feces. These contains both the victim’s and the suspect’s DNA and can aid in the recreation of the crime.
Content of Blood
Blood is the body fluid that keeps us alive, as it delivers nutrients, oxygen and other vital substances to cells and organs and also transports waste materials away from those cells, among other functions.
The components of blood include Plasma, Red blood cells, White blood cells (leukocytes), and Platelets.
In Forensics …show more content…

Many tests were created to detect and test blood evidence at the crime scene.
Hemastix Tests are 3" plastic strips with a special blood reagent material at the tip. These strips detect the peroxide-like activity of hemoglobin in a substance.
To perform this test, the Hemastix is rubbed on a moistened stain or across a swab that has a suspected dried blood sample on it. If hemoglobin is detected, the reagent coated tip will turn a shade of green.
The only issue with Hemastix is that it can’t detect the difference between human and animal blood.
The Kastle Meyer Test is performed by first collecting a blood sample, then a drop of phenolphthalin reagent is added to the sample, and after a few seconds, a drop of hydrogen peroxide is applied to the swab. If the swab turns pink rapidly, it is said to test presumptive positive for blood. Waiting for periods over 30 seconds will result in most swabs turning pink naturally as they oxidize on their own in the air.
Alternatively, the swab can first be treated with a drop of ethanol in order to lyse the cells present and gain increased sensitivity and

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