The macroscopic detection of metallization in the latent current mark.

Immediate revelation of latent current mark (LCM) was investigated by means of macroscopic detection of metallization (M). LCM were produced on corpses using electrodes of metals most frequently involved in electrocution (iron, copper, zinc, aluminium, chrome, nickel, and brass). Also, current marks of accidental electrocutions (10 cases) were examined. Single metals can be identified by spraying specific reagents on the suspected skin. The following multiple systems can be used to simultaneously produce the above mentioned metals: A. Sequence: 10% ammonium sulphid--H2O--0.2% solochrome cyanine in 1% HCl. B. Sequence: 0.5% 2.nitroso.1.naphtol in acetone--H2O--0.2% solochrome cyanine in 1% HCl. Instead of appearing on the skin, metallization can sometimes be found on clothes or shoes. Macroscopic search for LCM metallization is a very simple method and it is recommended in both certain and suspected electrocution, as well as in cases of sudden, unexpected death, particularly during work.