title: DNA identification in mass fatality incidents.
abstract: DNA identification has become an important aspect of mass fatality management as well as in other instances of difficult identification of human remains. Most large mass fatality incidents will require DNA identification. Medical examiners should prepare for such potential eventuality. Whether DNA is tested, in mass fatality incidents, DNA specimens should be obtained from remains as well as from next-of-kin for potential testing. DNA identification is neither as slow nor as expensive relative to the overall fatality management as is commonly assumed. This article sought to provide medical examiners with a framework for DNA identification in mass fatality incidents.
authors: Office of Chief Medical Examiner Maryland, Baltimore, 21223-2595, USA. weednv@njdcj.org
authors: Victor W
authors: VW
authors: Weedn
authors: Howard J
authors: HJ
authors: Baum
mesh_terms: D041322:Chromosomes, Human, Y; D053836:DNA Degradation, Necrotic; D016172:DNA Fingerprinting; D004272:DNA, Mitochondrial / Q000235:genetics; D004190:Disasters; D005190:Family; D053803:Forensic Genetics; D006801:Humans; D007753:Laboratories; D018895:Microsatellite Repeats; D013048:Specimen Handling
chemical_list: D004272:DNA, Mitochondrial