Radiologic identification of unknown human remains

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Radiology
• Medical Examination

Background:

• The City of St. Louis, Office of the Medical Examiner, received 3964 cases over 15 months.
• A small percentage (1.8%) of these cases required detailed investigation to establish identification (ID).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of various scientific methods in establishing the identity of deceased individuals.
• To determine the most reliable techniques for identification in challenging cases.

Main Methods:

• Rigorous investigation of 71 cases requiring identification.
• Utilized scene evidence, fingerprint, dental, and X-ray studies.
• Focused on comparing premortem and postmortem radiographs for identification.

Main Results:

• Fifty (80.4%) individuals were scientifically identified, with 17 (24%) identified circumstantially, and 4 (5.6%) remaining unidentified.
• Radiographic comparison was the primary method for scientific identification, accounting for 60% of successful IDs.
• Identification was achieved in cases involving decomposition, fire victims, body misidentification, submersion, and suicide.
• Chest, skull, and abdominal radiographs were most frequently useful.

Conclusions:

• Scientific identification is crucial in a subset of medical examiner cases.
• Premortem and postmortem radiographic comparison is a highly effective method for establishing identity.
• Unique anatomical, disease, and postsurgical features are vital for positive identification.