Preparations for the Mission examination. The quality, independence and reliability of the diagnostic facilities should be assessed. Diagnostic tests are described in Annex II of the Istanbul Protocol. Tests may include • • • • • • • • • • • X-rays • Tests for STIs and HIV/AIDS21 Scintigraphy CT Scans MRI Chapter notes 15. Annex 1, Principles on the Effective Investigation and Documentation of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, http://www2.ohchr.org/english/about/publications/ docs/8rev1.pdf 16. Reyes, Hernan, MD, DMSc, Doctors in prison: documenting torture in detention, Torture Volume 18, 3 Nov. 2008 Ultrasound 17. http://www2.ohchr.org/english/about/ publications/docs/8rev1.pdf, page 29 Biopsies20 18. OHCHR Training Manual on Human Rights Monitoring, Professional Training Series 7, http:// www.ohchr.org/Documents/Publications/ training7part59en.pdf, page 113 Laboratory for basic blood tests Urine and toxicological tests Collection of DNA samples Basic ophthalmologic examination Basic examination of hearing capacities Language and the provision of background information should be carefully managed in the request to a diagnostic facility. The word ‘torture’ should be avoided and instead a phrase such as ‘history of multiple trauma’ should be used. In some cases, registration data may be sent to authorities, and torture victims could be 22 intimidated afterwards. The patient’s consent should at all times be respected. 19. http://www2.ohchr.org/english/about/ publications/docs/8rev1.pdf, General considerations for interviews, Chapter IV, paragraph 119-159 20. There are different opinions about the use of punch biopsies. While kits are available and easy to carry along, there is the danger of infection and bleeding, which may cause problems with local authorities. Punch biopsies should be performed in local clinics in clinical settings by experienced local health professionals. Punch biopsy by a team member should be the last choice and should be carried out only if a local partner is available to follow up on the tests. 21. It needs to be assessed whether treatment of STIs and HIV/AIDS is available, for example, through partner organisations. If the investigation involves recent survivors of rape there is a need to work with an experienced forensic specialist and specific protocols should be followed (see Annex 5).