Medical-forensic examination of sexual assault victims and alleged offenders is a common task of many forensic institutes. In the current study, the results from samples taken at the Institute of Legal Medicine, Hanover Medical School, during a period from 2005 to 2007 were retrospectively evaluated. In total, 292 victims (283 females and nine males) and 88 suspects were examined. At the time of the assault, 41.8% of the victims and 43.2% of the alleged perpetrators were under the influence of alcohol. Injuries were found in 84.9% of the victims and 39.8% of the suspects. Thirty victims (10.3%) reported having been choked or strangled. Cytology was performed in 218 victims. In 81 cases (38.0%), sperm could be detected in vaginal swabs up to 3 days post-assault. In seven (18.9%) out of 37 anal samples, evidence of sperm could be found 24 h post-assault. None of 22 oral samples was positive for sperm. Out of 301 sexual assault cases, 171 could be proved by means of medical-forensic examination. In summary, our evaluation shows that an early medical-forensic examination of both victim and suspect can secure numerous medical findings. Furthermore, persons intoxicated by alcohol, handicapped persons and persons with psychiatric disorders are more vulnerable to become a sexual assault victim.

Key in the management of acute aortic dissection is to maintain a high clinical index of suspicion for this diagnosis. Etiologically hereditary diseases (Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome) should be taken into consideration as a possible cause. In all unexpected deaths of young adults an autopsy should be performed to detect the cause of death and for genetic testing to provide information for the relatives in case an aortic aneurysm can be found.

autopsy give the most accurate diagnostic information. On the other hand, it may provide an effective defence against medical malpractice litigation.