The detection of female DNA from the penis in sexual assault cases.

An investigation was performed with the aim of assessing the success rate of the examination of penile swabs or imprints for the detection of the female DNA profile. Two hundred twenty seven cases from a 3-year period were retrospectively reviewed. In 57% of the cases, no suitable material was available. Of the remaining 97 cases, 26 provided a DNA profile from the female victim. It is concluded that although the total success rate is low, it is worthwhile performing the examination, especially if there is a short interval between the alleged sexual assault and the examination.