The significance of prostate-specific antigen in forensic examinations of sexual violence: A case report

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests are used in forensic science to perform rapid semen screening on vaginal swab samples from suspected victims of sexual assault. In some sexual assault cases, clothing or bedding is key evidence. A pre-trial investigation was launched following a complaint by an 85-year-old woman, who alleged that she had been raped by her 63-year-old son-in-law with whom she lives. Traces of seminal fluid were found in the vaginal swab (following a PSA test), and traces of seminal fluid, along with the victim's DNA and a partial DNA profile of the suspect, were found on the victim's underwear. The first-instance court (district court) found the man guilty and sentenced him to 3 years and 6 months of imprisonment for rape. Although PSA is produced in the prostate and secreted into seminal fluid, it is not exclusive to the prostate. PSA can be detected in women's bodies in various pathological conditions. In cases of sexual violence, the proper interpretation of laboratory tests is essential, taking into account all the circumstances of the incident as well as the victim's medical history.