Further Information on the Use of p-Nitrophenyl Phosphate to Quantitate Acid Phosphatase on Vaginal Swabs Examined in Cases of Sexual Assault

Abstract

A simple test for screening swabs for the presence of semen has now been used on over 1000 vaginal swabs. The preliminary conclusions reached in a previous paper (Davies, 1978) are discussed and these have subsequently been shown to be correct: however, more information is now available. Despite the limitations of the method, the results can give a clear indication of the presence of semen. The test also continues to be of use on some occasions when the time interval between sexual intercourse and the swab being taken is contentious. Some modifications to the method arc also described.