Obtaining fingerprints from mummified fingers: a method for tissue rehydration adapted from the archeological literature
Schmidt, CW
Archeology and Forensics Laboratory, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46227.

Nawrocki, SP
Archeology and Forensics Laboratory, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46227.

Williamson, MA
Archeology and Forensics Laboratory, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46227.

Marlin, DC
Indiana University School of Dentistry, Indianapolis, IN 46202.


Abstract
Our laboratory was asked to help with the rehydration of mummified human fingertips that had been removed from a recently deceased, unidentified female. Using a solution that was found in the archeological literature, we were able to successfully rehydrate dermal tissues to the extent that fingerprints could be taken. We believe that this solution, which until now has not been described in the forensic literature, is effective, affordable, and relatively easy to produce and use.

Keywords:
anthropology, dermatoglyphs, forensic science, mummification, tissue rehydration

Paper ID: JFS4540874

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Author Schmidt CW, Nawrocki SP, Williamson MA, Marlin DC Title Obtaining fingerprints from mummified fingers: a method for tissue rehydration adapted from the archeological literature Symposium , Committee on