Journal of Forensic Research

Restoration of Fingerprints from a Mummified Cadaver

Abstract

Etsuko Iwakami, Seisaku Uchigasaki and Jian Tie

Fingerprints are widely used as the most reliable means of individual identification in forensic science. However, postmortem changes of the skin always make it difficult to obtain fingerprints. To restore fingerprints of mummified cadavers, various reagents have been used. In recent years, commercially available embalming agents for cadaver restoration and preservation have been evaluated, but they have not been sufficiently compared. In this study, we successfully restored fingerprints from a highly dried, almost mummified, unidentified cadaver. Five methods were attempted to restore fingerprints: three used previously reported reagents and two used commercially available embalming solutions at room temperature. The fingers were observed grossly after immersion for 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 days. When all the specimens were well restored, fingerprints were taken by the inked impression method and by an indirect method using silicone rubber. The results indicated that Na2CO3, and Sofner® were more effective to restore clear fingerprints. The other solutions failed to produce optimal tissue softening and swelling, and the dermal ridges were ill-defined. The conventional Na2CO3 and the newly tested Sofner® were useful in that they restored better fingerprints in a shorter duration. Na2CO3 has to be prepared before use, whereas Sofner® can be used by simply diluting with water