Background: Pedestrians represent one of the most exposed and vulnerable categories of road users, bearing a highburden of trauma in urban environments. This study presents a systematic analysis of localized limb injury patternsin fatal pedestrian road traffic accidents (RTAs) and evaluates demographic and situational correlates which includeelectronic distraction(mobile phone/Earphone usage) and alcohol consumption.Materials and Methods: A retrospective archive-based cross-sectional study examined 189 autopsied cases of fatalpedestrian accidents out of a total population of 1,503 RTA autopsies conducted at the Department of Forensic Medicineand Toxicology in a Tertiary care centre in Bengaluru, from January 2023 to December 2024. Statistical evaluations includedChi-square tests of independence, Odds Ratios (OR), Chi-square goodness-of-fit tests, and two-tailed exact binomial tests.Results: Males, young adults, and people with less education were the most common victims of pedestrian fatalities,which made up 12.57% of road traffic accident autopsies. Many of these accidents took place in peri-urban regions.At the moment of impact, younger pedestrians (≤40 years old) were far more likely to be distracted by electronic devices.Light four-wheelers were the most prevalent offending vehicles, and lower limbs were more commonly and severelywounded than higher limbs. The majority of deaths took place in urban and periurban areas.Conclusion: Pedestrian limb trauma shows a strong anatomical preference for the lower extremities, reflecting vehicleimpact mechanics. The high association between youth and device-related electronic distraction underscores the need fortargeted enforcement and pedestrian infrastructure safeguards along urban outskirts.
Background and AimsPoisoning remains a major public health issue in low- and middle-income countries, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Early risk stratification is crucial in managing poisoning. To assess the prognostic utility of initial serum lactate levels in poisoning, determine an optimal cut-off for predicting mortality, and evaluate its association with mortality, ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and hospital stay. Methods and PatientsA retrospective observational study was conducted in the Emergency Department of a tertiary care center in Karnataka, India. Adults (>18 years) presenting within 24 hours of toxin ingestion were included. Exclusions were prescription drug overdoses, sepsis, trauma, and hypoperfusion unrelated to poisoning. Initial serum lactate levels were correlated with clinical outcomes. Results:Among 99 patients (62.6% male, mean age 32.8±11.9 years), the mean lactate level was 2.97±2.49 mmol/L. ROC analysis identified a cut-off of 3.25 mmol/L for mortality prediction (AUC: 0.691; sensitivity: 71.4%; specificity: 73.8%). Mortality was significantly higher in patients with lactate >3.25 mmol/L (31.3%) compared to ≤3.25 mmol/L (6.1%) (OR: 7.05; 95% CI: 2.00–24.77; p=0.002). Elevated lactate was associated with increased ICU admission (OR: 9.4) and mechanical ventilation (OR: 7.8). Rodenticide poisoning had the highest lactate levels and mortality. Conclusion:An initial serum lactate >3.25 mmol/L is significantly associated with mortality and critical care needs in poisoning cases, making it a valuable early risk stratification tool in emergency settings
Sexual assault is a major offense, and there has been a rise in the number of reported sexual offenses to the police in India. Transferred trace material can be utilized to ascertain connections between objects, individuals, or locations. Perfumes are imperceptible substances utilized by individuals of both genders. Hence, it is possible for the aromatic constituents of a perfume to be transmitted during interpersonal contact. The purpose of this study is to analyze the transfer of smell from garments to a secondary piece of cloth using UV-Visible Spectroscopy. Cotton swatches were utilized for all perfume transfer trials. The experiments involved the use of direct touch and solvent extraction techniques. This study establishes that perfume aroma is transferable and can be retrieved from various secondary fabric samples, even after the perfume has been matured on distinct primary fabric for a duration of up to 5 hours. This study focuses on analyzing transferred fragrance in secondary fabric using UV-VIS Spectroscopy. The major objective is to provide the forensic area with a reliable and cost-effective analytical method.
This research examines the impact of individual characteristics, such ad digestive conditions and pregnancy, on life activity and work ability after injuries with a focus on forensic medical aspects. The study analyzed the relationship between gastrointestinal disease, pregnancy and individual functionality where severe bodily injuries often lead to permanent disability. The aim of the research is to contribute to a more precise assessment of injury consequences in a forensic medical context, whitch can improve the classification of injures and the evaluation of work ability in forensic practice.
Saliva as well as objects with saliva traces is good and valuable sources of DNA for genotyping in forensic cases. DNAprofiling of these trace evidence helps in identifying the persons involved in the crime as well the presence of the individualat the crime scene. The present study gives insight into understanding the possibility of obtaining STR (Short TandemRepeat) profile from the traces of salivary stains from objects which may be collected from crime scene. Saliva traceevidences collected from crime scenes were received at forensic science laboratory for DNA profiling (STR). The presentstudy is a report on forensic cases received for STR profiling from uncommon trace evidences and moreover, there are veryfew reports on forensic case based analysis. The objects with saliva traces collected as evidences from 3 different forensiccases, sent for analysis were case I: garment (saliva from biting), case II: garment (saliva from gutkha spitting) and gutkhaswab from floor collected at crime scene and case III: green leafy vegetable (saliva from spitting). Presence of saliva wasconfirmed from above evidence materials and enough DNA was recovered from saliva traces by automated extractionmethod. STR profiles were generated using 0.5hg-1hg of DNA. In Case I and II, 23 autosomal STR markers were analyzed.In case III, 27 Y-chromosomal STR markers were analyzed. The alleles in the STR profile obtained from the saliva sampleswere identical and matching completely with the alleles at each locus (23 autosomal STR loci/27 Y-STR loci) in the STRprofile obtained from reference blood of the suspect thus proving the presence and probable involvement of suspect incrime. The forensic STR profiling analysis plays a major role in all three cases, determining the individual’s involvementwith the crime scene which is necessary to provide evidence in court.
Background: Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the primary causes of cardiovascular death globally and represents the most critical form of coronary artery disease (CAD). At the same time that Iraq is lacking comprehensive surveillance data on MI frequency across age groups, there is an escalating burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in low and middle-income countries. The present study represents the first histopathology-based assessment of age-specific and gender-specific MI frequency among medico-legal autopsy cases in Baghdad. Methods: In Baghdad, a retrospective study utilized the archived records from the Histopathological Department of the Medico-Legal Directorate. Data collection was made between May 2025 and September 2025. The collection included cases that were verified MI autopsies, which were recorded from January 2022 to December 2024. An exclusion was made, including only cases with myocarditis or cardiomyopathy. The total cases manually extracted were 4,344 MI cases. They were categorized by gender, age group, and year of occurrence. SPSS (v28), GraphPad Prism (v10.4.1), and Microsoft Excel 2021 were utilized to conduct descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A noticeable elevation in MI cases was spotted over three years period: 2022 (1,089 cases), 2023 (1,541 cases), and 2024 (1,714 cases). The majority of cases were consistently represented by individuals aged >50 years, composing (58.1%), (68.2%), and (67.9%) of MI deaths in 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively (p < 0.001). The second most affected age group was those between 41 and 50 years old. Nevertheless, fewer than 3% cases of patients ≤30 years were recorded. Across all years, a significant male preponderance was noticed, with men constituting 73.8% during 2022, 71.5% during 2023, and 70.3% during 2024 of MI cases (p = 0.001). Although the ratio of MI proportional to overall autopsy cases exhibits minimal variation, the constant increase indicates a rising cardiovascular burden. Conclusions: The analysis of this forensic histopathological study demonstrates an upward trend in MI frequency in the capital of Iraq (Baghdad), preponderantly harming male individuals over 50 years across all age groups. Although the current study did not assess individuals’ risk factors, previously reported cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, overweight, and smoking may contribute to this burden and upward MI frequency, which warrants further investigation. Furthermore, the progressive rise in female MI cases suggests different lifestyles and intense health hardship. The study highlights the necessity for enhanced national surveillance and preventive measures targeting CVD.
This forensic commentary examines the evolution of forensic science in the Bharatiya Nyaya Pranali, tracing the transitionfrom traditional trial by ordeal to modern evidence-based scientific investigation. It critically analysis the contributions ofthe Indian Knowledge System (IKS), colonial forensic reforms, and contemporary legal frameworks to the development offorensic practices in India. A qualitative doctrinal research design was adopted using secondary sources, including ancientlegal texts, historical records, statutory provisions, government reports, judicial decisions, and peer-reviewed literature.The analysis demonstrates that early Indian jurisprudence incorporated principles of observation, logical reasoning, andmedico-legal practices that contributed to the foundations of forensic thought. British colonial administration subsequentlyinstitutionalized forensic science through fingerprint identification, medico-legal procedures, and forensic laboratories,establishing scientific evidence within criminal investigations. The study further examines the expanding role of forensictechnologies under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam,highlighting advancements in DNA profiling, digital forensics, artificial intelligence, and next-generation sequencing. Thestudy concludes that integrating scientifically validated traditional knowledge with contemporary forensic innovations,supported by adequate infrastructure, skilled professionals, and ethical governance, can enhance the reliability, transparency,and effectiveness of India’s criminal justice system while preserving its indigenous intellectual heritage.
Sexual assault inflicts profound physical and psychological distress on victims regardless of gender or age. Nurses often serve as the initial responders in healthcare facilities. The Nirbhaya case of December 2012 led to the enactment of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, which expanded the definition of rape and recognized the right of victims to receive medical and forensic care in India. The Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 further strengthened safeguards for child victims. Forensic nursing is a specialized field that applies nursing principles to care for individuals affected by violence, trauma, or criminal acts. These nurses collaborate with law enforcement, legal experts, and healthcare facilities for assessment, treatment, evidence collection, injury documentation, emotional support, and legal testimony. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) are specially trained professionals authorized to conduct Sexual Assault Forensic Examinations and are integral members of Sexual Assault Response Teams. This article explores their roles, responsibilities, and scope in the Indian context.
Background: Diagnosis of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) relies on the integration of morphology and genetics. Whilelead toxicity is a known cause of basophilic stippling, its ability to mimic the complex morphologic features of clonal myeloidmalignancies—such as micromegakaryocytes—is often under-recognized in the era of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). Case Presentation: A 54-year-old male presented with transfusion-dependent anemia, constipation, and cognitive decline.Bone marrow examination revealed profound trilineage dysplasia and micromegakaryocytes, highly suggestive of MDS.However, comprehensive molecular profiling (Karyotype, FISH, and NGS) was negative for clonal markers. A detailedhistory revealed long-term ingestion of an alternative medication preparation containing Nag Bhasma (lead ash). The bloodlead level (BLL) was >100 μg/dL (normal levels < 5 μg/dL). Conclusion: This case highlights “morphologic-molecular discordance” as a red flag. Withdrawal of the offending agentand chelation therapy resulted in rapid hematologic recovery. In the absence of clonal markers, heavy metal toxicity mustbe excluded before diagnosing MDS.
Introduction: Any unusual organ discoloration during autopsy should be carefully examined to exclude decomposition, poisoning or underlying diseases. We report such a case of turquoise discoloration of the brain and heart, rarely observed during routine autopsy, which posed a major diagnostic challenge. Case Summary: A 50-year-old male was admitted to a nursing home with a history of head injury following a fall in the bathroom. He died after 15 days due to sepsis and refractory vasoplegic shock. At autopsy, the brain and heart appeared light bluish in colour. On cut section and exposure to atmospheric air, the organs rapidly turned turquoise-blue in colour, producing a distinctive “avatar-like” appearance. Discussion: The rapid colour change did not match typical findings of asphyxia, methemoglobinemia, decomposition or hydrogen sulphide poisoning. Review of clinical records revealed use of methylene blue as rescue therapy for refractory septic shock. Methylene blue is reduced to colourless leucomethylene blue in tissues, which re-oxidizes upon exposure to oxygen, explaining the intense turquoise-blue colour change during autopsy. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering iatrogenic causes of abnormal discoloration of organs. Awareness of methylene-blue associated colour changes can prevent misinterpretation of autopsy findings as poisoning or decomposition.
The most ambitious DNA phenotyping goal is forecasting a full face from a DNA sample. Over the last decade, GWAS and successive predictive analyses have discovered a multitude of EVC-predictive SNPs and predictive models, most particularly for human pigmentation features. IrisPlex, the first forensic eye color prediction system, was designed mainly to differentiate between blue and brown eyes, and its evolved version, the HirisPlex-S DNA testing method, predicts eye, hair, and skin color based on DNA traces. 59 DNA samples were examined using the Multiplex SnaPshot kit (Applied Biosystems) for the simultaneous detection of 11 SNPs (rs1805005, rs885479, rs11547464, rs185008, rs1805006, rs1805007, rs1805009, rs2228479, rs1110400) taken from a large-scale GWAS research. This study adopted the genotype identification of 11 Hirisplex system markers as a prediction model of eye color and hair color. Some of these variants (rs11547464, rs885479, rs1805005, rs2228479) were found to be relevant for anticipating eye and hair color, whereas others (rs1805008, rs1805006, rs1805007, rs1805009, rs1110400, Y1520CH, N29insA) were observed to be unacceptable because of low variation. The statistical data illustrated a substantial level of agreement between the statistical model and the actual eye color of the participants.
Introduction: Poisoning is a leading cause of preventable mortality worldwide, with trends shaped by changingsocietal, environmental, and toxicological factors. This study examines poisoning-related fatalities in Patiala,Punjab, using autopsy data to identify patterns, demographic correlations, and toxicological profiles, aiming toinform preventive and intervention strategies.Aims and Hypothesis: The study hypothesizes that poisoning trends are shifting due to the increased availabilityof hazardous substances and changing socio-economic pressures. It aims to analyze these trends and exploreinnovative approaches to mitigate poisoning-related mortality.Materials and Methods: A descriptive prospective study was conducted over 1.5 years on 360 autopsy cases withalleged poisoning. Data was analyzed on parameters including demographic profiles, type of poison, route andtiming of exposure, and the socio-environmental context of incidents. Statistical analysis, including Fisher’s ExactTest, identified significant associations, with p ≤ 0.05 considered significant.Results: Among 360 cases, 301 (83.6%) were males, and 59 (16.4%) were females, with the highest incidence inthe 21–30 years age group (30.56%). Aluminum phosphide was the most commonly detected poison (21.39%),followed by alcohol (11.11%). Suicide was the predominant manner of death (37.22%), strongly associated withaluminum phosphide, while alcohol was a key factor in accidental and overdose cases.Innovative findings revealed that 29.44% of cases had pending toxicology reports, underscoring systemic delaysthat hinder timely legal and preventive interventions. Furthermore, most incidents (77.78%) involved oralingestion, with 59.17% occurring in domestic settings, highlighting the need for stricter regulation and storageof household toxins. Seasonal analysis identified a significant spike in poisoning cases during the rainy season(43.61%), suggesting the role of agricultural practices and pesticide use during this period.Conclusion: This study emphasizes the critical need for gender- and age-specific interventions, enhanced mentalhealth services, and stricter regulations on toxic substances, particularly aluminum phosphide. Innovativemeasures, such as real-time toxicological diagnostics, community-based poison control programs, and educationalcampaigns targeting rural and urban populations, are essential to reduce the burden of poisoning-related mortality
Background: Near-hanging is frequently reported in trauma and emergency, compelling immediate treatment and forensic intervention. Early predictors of outcome help guide clinical and medico-legal decisions. Aim: To study demographic attributes and prognostic implications of Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) at admission in near-hanging cases over ten years. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study of 71 consecutive near-hanging patients admitted alive between January 2012 and December 2021 was conducted. Variables included age, gender, admission GCS, and outcome (survived/expired). Results: The mean age was 32.1 years. Young adults (21–30 years) constituted 36.6% of cases. Males accounted for 54.9%. Overall survival was 54.9% and mortality 45.1%. Patients with GCS ≤8 on admission had significantly higher mortality (χ² = 12.84; p < 0.01). Conclusion: Near-hanging predominantly affects young adults. Admission GCS is a statistically significant predictor of mortality. Early neurological assessment and aggressive emergency care are crucial.
Recovering DNA from environmentally degraded biological samples remains one of the most persistent challenges in forensic science. Saliva, though highly valuable as a source of epithelial cells, is frequently exposed to detrimental environmental factors that accelerate chemical, enzymatic, and structural DNA degradation. This study thoroughly investigates the effectiveness of a 7.5 M ammonium acetate-based extraction protocol for the recovery of usable DNA from saliva subjected to controlled UV radiation, thermal degradation, and sodium hypochlorite exposure. DNA yield and purity were assessed using NanoDrop spectrophotometry, and STR profiling was performed using the VeriFiler™ Express PCR Amplification Kit. Results demonstrated that although degradation significantly impacted nucleic acid concentration and purity, amplifiable DNA was recovered, producing partial to near-complete STR profiles. These findings indicate that ammonium acetate precipitation is a cost-effective, non-toxic alternative for resource-limited laboratories, with important implications for forensic casework involving compromised biological evidence.
In the post–COVID-19 pandemic period, an increasing number of sudden deaths have been observed, particularly among young and middle-aged individuals in India. This trend has created a major challenge for the healthcare system in understanding the underlying pathological mechanisms responsible for such unexpected fatalities. Sudden deaths frequently generate public concern, medicolegal scrutiny, and allegations, making accurate determination of the cause of death essential. A prospective study on sudden natural deaths was carried out at a tertiary care hospital in Surat from 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024. The study demonstrated that most sudden deaths occurred in adults, with a higher incidence among individuals above 30 years of age. A clear male predominance was noted, with a male-to-female ratio of 6:1. cardiovascular diseases were identified as the leading cause of sudden natural deaths, accounting for 42.72% of cases. Respiratory system diseases were the second most common cause, contributing to 36.89% of deaths. These findings emphasize the significant contribution of cardiovascular pathology to sudden deaths in the adult population. The study also highlighted the importance of histopathological examination in establishing the definitive cause of death. Histopathology played a crucial role in correlating clinical history and autopsy findings, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy and strengthening medicolegal conclusions. Hence, comprehensive autopsy evaluation supported by histopathological analysis is vital in cases of sudden natural death.
Introduction: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a major global public health concern, particularly in low- andmiddle-income countries. Their human, economic, and medico-legal consequences remain considerable. Thisstudy aimed to analyze the medico-legal aspects of deaths resulting from RTAs in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) ofHeinrich Lübke Hospital in Diourbel, Senegal.Objective: To assess the epidemiological, injury-related, and medico-legal characteristics of RTA-related deathsin a regional ICU.Methods: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive, and analytical study of 52 deaths resulting from RTAsrecorded in the ICU of Heinrich Lübke Hospital, Diourbel, between January 2020 and December 2024. Data werecollected from medical records and analyzed according to sociodemographic variables, accident circumstances,types of injuries, and medico-legal management.Results: Most victims were male (82.7%, n=43), with a sex ratio of 4.8. The median age was 36.2 years (range:6–72), and 34.6% were under 20 years old. The majority resided in urban areas (73%) and had an occupation (62%).Collisions between vehicles were the leading mechanism (42.3%), with motorcycles involved in 48.1% of cases.Passengers accounted for 51.9% of victims, followed by pedestrians (30.8%). Polytrauma was predominant (57.7%),with cranioencephalic injuries in 82.7% of cases. Death occurred most often within the first week of hospitalization(34.6%). Only 21.2% of victims underwent external examination or autopsy.Conclusion: Road traffic accidents remain a leading cause of mortality among young adults in Senegal, dominatedby fatal head injuries. The limited number of medico-legal autopsies restricts the understanding of the real causesof death. Strengthening road safety prevention, improving pre-hospital care, and systematically enforcing medicolegalprocedures are essential to reduce mortality and improve forensic rigor in Senegal.
Tramadol is a synthetic analgesic that appears to have two mechanisms of action: a reuptake inhibition of serotonin and noradrenaline and a weak μ-opioid receptor agonism. Even though its potential for abuse is well reported, the drug is readily available off on the market and is not regarded as a controlled substance in many nations, in contrast to the majority of other opioids. The patient in this case report developed severe tramadol dependence after taking large doses of the drug to treat his musculoskeletal pain. We suggest that It should be made a controlled substance at the administrative levels due to the possibility of dependence and severe withdrawal symptoms.
A middle-aged male, farmer by occupation, presented with respiratory distress and severe vomiting following the ingestion of herbicide, which was paraquat. He deteriorated to metabolic acidosis and acute kidney injury and died on day three after ingestion. The toxicological study of viscera was negative, probably as a result of the rapid clearance of paraquat in tissues. Autopsy showed haemorrhagic foci in the stomach, foci under the cap of liver, haemorrhage of the lungs and significant pancreatic haemorrhage, which is a rare observation in paraquat poisoning. Hepatic steatosis, acute tubular necrosis and pancreatic haemorrhage were confirmed through histopathology reports. The pancreatic haemorrhage can be used as new forensic evidence of systemic paraquat toxicity and this makes it crucial that medicolegal studies should be carried out to verify such findings.
Choking is a form of asphyxia in which the internal airways are obstructed. Most cases of choking are accidental and often involve physically compromised or intoxicated people, often eating inappropriate foods or eating too quickly. Here, we are discussing a case of infant death on his first flight to Bangalore. A normal child with no previous history of diseases became unconscious and died. The autopsy revealed that cause of death is choking due to aspiration of milk. Lack of awareness, feeding a child in a hurry, and cramped flight seating arrangements will lend itself to dangerous positioning for breastfeeding and can result in choking.
Deliberate self-poisoning by ingestion of chemicals used for agriculture, insecticides and disinfectants used in houses is a common modality of poisoning across the globe. Poisoning by tablets containing sodium thiosulfate and methylene blue used as water purifying agent (both compounds are used for treatment of cyanide poisoning) is rare. Here we report clinical profile, relevant laboratory investigations and management of a rare case of sodium thiosulfate and methylene blue poisoning(a first case of dual ingestion poisoning with above mentioned chemical and pubmed has little case report on such poisoning).
