Indian Internet Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
Indian Internet Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (IIJFMT) is a peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to the publication of high-quality research in the fields of forensic medicine and toxicology. The journal serves as a key resource for professionals, researchers, and academics, offering insights into the latest developments and challenges within these disciplines. IIJFMT covers a broad spectrum of topics, including forensic pathology, toxicology, clinical forensic medicine, and the application of forensic science in legal contexts. Through its commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, IIJFMT plays a vital role in supporting the ongoing development and application of forensic science.
This case highlights the forensic importance of identifying injuries in cases of prolonged vehicular dragging. A 27-year-old male motorcyclist died after being trapped under a speeding limousine and dragged for nearly 11 km. The Re-postmortem revealed extensive abraded lacerations, deep soft tissue loss, and exposed bones with characteristics of “grinding/friction” injuries. Vital reaction was found in wounds over the body. Internal findings showed craniocerebral injuries and long bone fractures. These injury patterns helped to reconstruct the incident as a possible manslaughter or homicide. This case highlights the medicolegal significance of re-postmortem examination in clarifying manner of death in complex vehicular dragging incidents.
Copyright (c) 2026 Indian Internet Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
An unusual case of firearm injury-A Case Report
The use of firearms is increasing in our society, which increases the incidence of gunshot injuries in developing countries like India. Atypical firearm injuries are uncommon where they present as other injuries, different numbers of entry and exit wounds. The appearance of gunshot entrance wounds on the body depends upon many factors including, the type of firearm, the type of ammunition, the location of the wound on the body, and the circumstances of how a wound was sustained. Atypical gunshot entrance wounds may be created when the bullet is destabilized prior to entering the body and consequently does not enter the body nose first but sideways or at an angle. The most common causes of an atypical entrance wound are bullet ricochet and interaction with an intermediate target. In ordinary circumstances in rifled firearm; number of entry wounds should match exit wounds and when they don’t match, it indicates presence of bullet inside the body. One such atypical case of firearm injuries was brought to NCH Surat for PM examination. There were three firearm injuries on the body, out of which one is entry and two is exit wound.
A Case Report of Physical Assault and Traumatic Mechanical Injuries Report to Emergency department of SRMS IMS Bhojipura Bareilly
According to section 44 IPC now BNS 2(14) “the word “injury” denotes any harm whatever illegally caused to any person, in body, mind, reputation or property” [1] clinically it is breach of natural continuity of skin or mucous membrane [2] profound study of injuries plays a significant role in medicolegal study. This case report emphasizes the identification of injury types while ruling out alternative injury classification to prevent errors while maintaining accurate medical records.
Profile of deaths due to electrocution– a retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Haryana
Background- Deaths due to electrocution have been on an increase due to extensive use of modern electrical appliances in day-to-day work. Electrical burns are associated with severe morbidity and high mortality. However, these are preventable if proper safety measures are taken while using them. Methods- This study took into account 61 post-mortem records of cases conducted in 7 years and analysed cases of deaths caused by electrocution in the region. Results- Of the 61 cases most common occurrence of deaths by electrocution was seen in rainy season and most commonly affected areas were upper extremities. Conclusion- The study highlights that the death caused by electrocution are not so common and also avoidable if proper care is taken while working around electrical appliances. Safety measures should be instructed properly to avoid such hazards.
Copyright (c) 2025 Indian Internet Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
Homicide Or Accident? Meticulous Forensic Investigation Solved The Case - A Case Report
History plays a great role in crime investigation. Inspite of that, autopsy findings and circumstantial evidence can lead to the actual truth. A 16-year-old boy was brought to the emergency with profuse bleeding from his left axilla and was declared dead. It was an alleged case of homicide, complained by the family members of the decease but after thorough investigation and post-mortem findings, the case led to somewhere else. It was claimed that victim was killed by his friends during a birthday party celebration. Autopsy finding revealed an incised wound over left axilla which led to transection of axillary artery and the victim died due to hypovolemic shock. Circumstantial evidence corroborated with autopsy findings and finally manner of death was established as accident.
Deaths Due to Hanging: A Retrospective Autopsy Study
Hanging is one of the most common methods of committing suicide all around the world. This is retrospective study conducted between Jan 2018 to December 2022, which included 48 cases of Hanging which were autopsied in Mortuary of Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College for Women, Khanpur Kalan, Sonipat, Haryana during this period. Out of 48 cases of Hanging, 34 (70.8%) cases were males and 14 (29.2%) cases were females. Maximum number of victims 16 (33.3%) were in the age group of 21-30 years. Maximum 42 (87.5%) cases occurred in closed place and least number of cases occurred in open place 06 (12.5%). Cyanosis was seen in around 43(89.5%) of cases and face congestion seen in around 24 (50%) cases. Ligature mark present above the level of thyroid cartilage in maximum number of cases 43 (89.5%). Fracture of hyoid bone present in 6 (12.5%) cases. Aim of the study was to find out incidence, trends and patterns of hanging in Haryana.
Beyond The Gastrointestinal Tract: Unusual External Findings In A Case Of Fatal Battery Acid Ingestion
Exposure to caustic agents like sulfuric acid and rodenticides remains a major public health concern. While individual ingestion of either agent is well-documented, simultaneous intake is exceptionally rare and poses a heightened risk of rapid systemic toxicity and gastrointestinal devastation. We report a fatal case involving simultaneous ingestion of sulfuric acid. The patient showed severe corrosion and necrosis of the lips and perioral area, while the esophagus remained intact, reflecting the known resistance of esophageal squamous epithelium to acid damage. The stomach exhibited extensive coagulative necrosis without perforation, likely due to the presence of approximately 80 ml of semi-digested food that may have lessened tissue injury. Corrosive damage extended to the larynx and upper trachea, causing inflammation and epiglottic swelling. These findings indicate aspiration of acid-contaminated gastric contents, leading to aspiration pneumonia, a major cause of death alongside potential laryngeal edema and respiratory arrest. This case highlights the grave morbidity and mortality risk from accidental combined ingestion of corrosive and toxic agents. It stresses the urgent need for public education on safe storage and handling of hazardous chemicals.
Introduction:Suicide is a major public health issue in India and the third leading cause of death among people aged 15–29 years. According to NCRB 2022, India reported 170,924 suicide deaths, showing a 4.2% increase from the previous year and a 27% rise since 2018, with a suicide rate of 12.4 per 100,000 population. Vulnerable groups include young adults, women, students, daily wage earners, and farmers. This review analyzes suicide trends in India from 2018 to 2022, highlighting demographics, causes, and policy implications.Methods:The review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Literature was searched in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, NCRB reports, WHO publications, and government documents. Search terms included “Suicide India,” “Mental Healthcare Act 2017,” “NCRB suicide statistics,” and “National Suicide Prevention Strategy.” Inclusion criteria were NCRB reports and peer-reviewed English-language studies from 2018 to 2022. Data on epidemiology, risk factors, methods, and policies were extracted and synthesized.Results:Suicide mortality rose from 10.2 to 12.4 per 100,000 between 2018 and 2022. Men accounted for nearly three-fourths of deaths. About 67% of suicides occurred among individuals aged 18–45. Major causes included family conflict (31.7%), chronic illness (18.4%), economic distress, and substance abuse. Hanging (58.2%) and pesticide ingestion were the leading methods. Student suicides (~13,000 annually) and farmer suicides (11,290 in 2022) remain significant challenges. Geographic disparities showed higher burdens in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, and Chhattisgarh. Legislative responses included the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, and the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, 2022, aligned with the WHO “LIVE LIFE” framework. Conclusion:Suicide in India reflects a complex interplay of social, economic, and psychological factors. Preventive efforts must focus on strengthening mental health services, restricting access to means, improving surveillance, and reducing stigma. Forensic medicine contributes critical evidence for surveillance and policy. A multisectoral, evidence-based approach is essential to reverse the rising trend.
Copyright (c) 2024 Indian Internet Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
A Study of Electrocution-Related Deaths: An Autopsy-Based Analysis at SMS Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur During the year 2023-24
Background: Electrocution is a largely preventable cause of mortality but continues to be a significant medico-legal and public health issue in India. It commonly occurs due to accidental contact with live wires, faulty appliances, or unsafe occupational practices, with suicidal and homicidal cases being rare. Aim: To analyze the demographic profile, injury patterns, and medico-legal aspects of electrocution-related deaths at SMS Medical College, Jaipur, during 2023–2024. Methodology: This observational study was conducted from November 2023 to October 2024 in the Department of Forensic Medicine, S.M.S. Medical College, Jaipur. A total of 100 medico-legal autopsy-confirmed cases of electrocution deaths were included after ethical approval and consent from legal heirs. Cases suspected but not confirmed on postmortem and decomposed bodies were excluded. Data were analyzed with respect to demographic details, site of injury, wound characteristics, voltage, associated burns, and cause of death. Result:Males predominated (89%) with only 11% females. The most affected age group was 20–29 years (37%), followed by 30–39 years (26%). Rural victims constituted 55% of cases. Hindus formed the majority (82%), reflecting regional demographics. The limbs were the most common sites of injury (lower limb 77%, upper limb 62%). Entry and exit wounds were noted in 52%, while 8% showed no external marks. Low voltage exposure accounted for 68% of deaths, and flame burns were seen in 48% of cases. Septicemia was the leading cause of death (55%), followed by shock due to electrocution (38%). Conclusion: Electrocution deaths predominantly affect young rural males engaged in high-risk occupatio ns. Most fatalities result from low-voltage exposure and septicemia following burns. The findings emphasize the importance of public awareness, enforcement of workplace safety standards, and meticulous medico-legal autopsy to prevent and correctly identify electrocution deaths.
Uncovering the Unexpected: Organochlorine Contamination in Viscera in a Fatal Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Episode
Inquest is an inquiry or investigation into the cause of death in cases of unnatural deaths, or if there is any suspicion or foul play suspected by the law or investi gation agencies. On request of a Police or Magistrate, the forensic pathologist conducts the medico-legal post-mortem examination. Many a time, it leaves the doctor in a dilemma to determine the exact cause of death especially where the his tory from relatives, police and the facts observed in the autopsy do not match the dots with each other. In these cases, the forensic pathologist sends the viscera for chemical analysis to the FSL (Forensic Science laboratory), which helps the doctor to conclude conclusions. Still, the forensic expert should not stop here giving full recognition to the viscera report only, instead, he should have done the autopsy meticulously and given importance to other factors in the crime scene, keeping all the differentials in his open mind. This case report explores the accidental discov ery of organochlorine compounds in the viscera of a deceased patient who suffered a neurocardiogenic vasovagal shock. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) detected these compounds during routine toxicological analysis. The findings were incongruous with the clinical diagnosis of vasovagal shock and prompted further investigation into the potential sources and health implications of these substances. This report underscores the necessity of comprehensive forensic investigation and the potential for environmental contaminants to complicate death investigations.
Right To Parenthood- A Left Crevice in Surrogacy Regulation Act 2021: Re view
Surrogacy refers to a practice whereby one woman bears and gives birth to a child for an intended couple with the intention of handing over such a child to the intended couple after birth. The right to parenthood, often referred to as the right to procreate or reproductive rights, is a fundamental human right. It encompasses individuals’ ability to make decisions about having and raising children without undue interference from the state or other entities. This right is rooted in various legal and constitutional principles including the right to privacy, family autonomy, and personal liberty. In this case, we have tried to scrutinize the laws of the surrogacy act and how they impacted the life of an intending couple. The Supreme Court has protected the right of parenthood of a woman suffering from a rare medical condition by staying the operation of a law that threatened to wreck her hopes to become a mother through surrogacy
Traumatic Subacute on Chronic Subdural Hematoma: An Autopsy-based Case Report
A typical consequence of head trauma and a notable finding during such autopsies is subdural hematoma (SDH). Upon diagnosis, a variety of clinical manifestations, including the lethal acute SDH, subacute, or chronic SDH (CSDH), may be present. Sometimes, these traumas may be so trivial that the exact history of incidence may be difficult to elicit, especially in the cases of subacute and chronic SDH. The signs of subacute SDH are usually evident only after three days to 2 to 3 weeks and grossly appear during autopsy as dark red-black liquefied blood with blood clots. CSDH is a gelatinous membrane with outer and inner layers adherent to dura matter. The present case is of a 47-year-old man with histories of falls, at his residence, first two years no history of treatment was there and a recent fall, about two weeks and led to the initial presentation of hemiparesis and hospitalization with a diagnosis of SDH, the patient died after a week. This article discusses the findings observed in the case where the cause of death was due to the complication of SDH, which was found to be subacute on the chronic type. Such cases usually present late to the hospital due to delayed symptom onset, and high suspicion of such cases should be kept when patients have a history of minor trauma or bleeding disorders and especially when the patient is elderly. Such cases necessitate immediate diagnosis via imaging modalities of the intracranial hemorrhages and necessary intervention.
Digital Roentgenography of Elbow Joint for Age Estimation in Living Individuals of Gujarat.
Age estimation by the use of X-rays is an age-old method of identification. However, there can be variations depending upon various factors such as age, an individual’s genetic makeup, diet, geographical habitat, and so on. Creating a regional database is need of the hour-rays of the elbow joints of individuals of Gujarat were studied by using Microsoft Office Picture Manager 2010 version for the appearance of ossification centers and epiphyseal fusion in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Department of Radio-diagnosis at a Medical College in Ahmedabad, Gujarat after the approval from Institutional Ethics Committee. All the findings showed a statistically significant association between age groups and the appearance of ossification centers and epiphyseal fusion. The study’s findings are discussed and compared to previous studies by authors from the Indian sub-continent &foreign. The persistence of epiphyseal scar on some bones may be influenced by factors other than chronological age.
The Transformative Impact of AI in Forensic Medicine: Innovations, Chal lenges, and Ethical Implications
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing forensic medicine by enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and scope of criminal investigations and victim identification. AI technologies, such as image and pattern recognition, DNA analysis, and predictive analytics, offer unique opportunities to improve forensic practices. However, the integration of AI into forensic medicine presents significant challenges, including technological implementation, data security, infrastructure needs, and training of professionals. Furthermore, ethical implications surrounding privacy, accountability, bias, consent, and human rights are central to the responsible use of AI in forensic contexts. The collection of sensitive personal data and the potential for AI to influence critical legal decisions raises concerns about transparency, fairness, and the protection of individual rights. To ensure the responsible application of AI in forensic medicine, it is essential to develop comprehensive guidelines, regulations, and ethical frameworks. As AI technology evolves, balancing innovation with ethical considerations will be crucial. Future progress in AI in forensic medicine will require ongoing collaboration between forensic scientists, AI researchers, legal professionals, and policymakers. By addressing these challenges and ethical dilemmas, the integration of AI can significantly enhance justice, public safety, and victim closure, while maintaining the integrity of the justice system. Ultimately, the successful integration of AI into forensic practices depends on caution, foresight, and a commitment to ethical principles to safeguard both technological advancements and fundamental human rights.
Evidential Interpretation Of Medicolegal Opinion: Pardgim Shift From Medical To Legal?
The criminal justice system provides remedies for offences, as defined by the law of the land. So far as “offences against human” in India are concerned, the erstwhile Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act (IEA)were major laws that witnessed many amendments. The BHARATIYA NYAYA SANHITA, 2023 (BNS) completely repealed the former IPC last year. Criminal investigation agencies rely mainly on examination of a person- living or dead–as the case may be and subsequently report of such examination by the Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP) / board of experts form a critical base for further investigations and legal recourse. Once the case is committed for trial, the opinion of RMP and analysis reports of various samples collected are also of immense importance for the prosecution side. The medicolegal opinion by RMP is based on one’s personal knowledge of “Forensic Medicine & Toxicology” coupled with practical exposure to such cases. The recent biomedical and legal literature permits one to conclude that the evidential interpretation of such opinion/s is more legal than that based on medical science. With due respect to all concerned stakeholders of the Criminal Justice Delivery System”, an attempt has been made to review the present scenario and contemplate solutions, if desired.
Spontaneous Rupture of the Liver Seen at Autopsy: A Case Report of a Rare Cause of Death in Custody and Literature Review
Death in custody is a death of a person in the custody of the police or other authorities or while in prison. When the causes are studied, they are usually from natural causes with the heart diseases constituting the majority of cases. We present a case of death in custody from spontaneous liver rupture, a rare condition with very few cases reported in literature. We are not aware of any reported case of death in custody secondary to spontaneous liver rupture. High index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis of spontaneous liver rupture and should be considered as a possible cause of death in custody. Adequate medical history of the detainee is important and crucial as they can detect fatal condition and the prison staff must act promptly to address any medical concerns of the inmates.
Injuries over Neck due to Ligature Materials in case of Hanging of Varanasi Region of U.P.
Background: Deaths by ligation of neck are in practice from the time immemorial and before advent of civilization. In uncivilized societies, the application of ligation for taking away the life of another person was one of the commonest practices which were successfully carried out into the civilized societies. Hanging is that form of violent asphyxial death in which ligature marks are found and it is mainly based on the constricting forces which is : (i) either by the exclusion of air from lungs or oxygenated blood from the brain, (ii) by means of ligature around the neck, (iii) the constricting force is the weight of the body. Results: The data of present cross-sectional study of 100 cases with the aim, injuries over neck due to ligature was collected from in the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Institute of Medical Science (IMS), BHU, Varanasi, U.P. India. The total duration of sampling was six months and different aspects such as sex ratio, age group involved, residence, ligature material used type of hanging, place of hanging, the Position of the knot and other external findings involved were taking under consideration. Conclusions: It was found that the most common cause of death in Varanasi region was Socio-economic Status of the victims with a male: female ratio of 1.8:1 with age group of 20- 29 years being most commonly involved.
Unmasking the Perils of Festive Fasting: A Clinical and Legal Insight into Buckwheat Poisoning During Janmashtami
During the Hindu festival of Janmashtami, many people fast and consume buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta) as a gluten-free substitute. However, incidents of buckwheat poisoning have surfaced, raising concerns regarding its safety during fasting. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and epidemiological characteristics, identify predictors of severity, evaluate biochemical markers, and examine the medicolegal implications of buckwheat poisoning associated with Janmashtami fasting. A retrospective review was conducted of 110 patients admitted with suspected buckwheat poisoning at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Data on demographics, clinical symptoms, severity factors, and biochemical parameters were collected, followed by analysis. The study also explored medicolegal dimensions to understand the broader impact of these poisoning cases. The findings revealed that most patients were adult males from lower socioeconomic groups. The most common symptoms observed were gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and neurological disturbances. Factors predicting the severity of poisoning were identified, including the amount of buckwheat consumed, existing health conditions, and delays in seeking medical care. Biochemical analysis revealed elevated levels of markers corresponding to the severity of symptoms. Medicolegal analysis pointed to shortcomings in food safety regulations, labelling, and public awareness, suggesting potential legal liabilities for food vendors and producers. Buckwheat poisoning during Janmashtami fasting presents a notable health risk, necessitating public health measures and stricter food safety standards. Healthcare providers should be particularly alert during fasting periods, and public awareness campaigns are essential to prevent future cases. Medicolegal considerations highlight the need for robust food safety legislation and improved consumer education to safeguard the public health.
Case Report of Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Shock: “A Medicolegal Mas- querade”
Autopsy plays a significant role in determining the cause of both natural and unnatural deaths. Identifying the cause of death becomes more challenging when it occurs suddenly and rapidly, particularly in cases involving trauma, whether known or unknown, or in a case of concealed underlying pathology. The role of cardiac inhibitory reflex as a potential cause of death remains debatable. This case report describes a fatal incident of such nature. The reasons for such neurocardiogenic vasovagal shock can be attributed to sudden shock or strong emotions and injury to specific areas such as the carotid sinus, various plexuses, testicles, and serous membranes. Even minor trauma to these areas can lead to sudden death. This case report describes a 43-year-old male who was assaulted by his neighbour as a result of a long-standing feud and died almost immediately after minor trauma to the neck and chest.
Forensic examination of Castor seeds (Ricin): Analytical method develop ment using ALS microscopy, Planar Chromatography and UV-spectroscopy
Ricin, a highly toxic protein found in castor bean seeds, is a potential agent for biological warfare and a major concern for national authorities worldwide. The assassination of Georgi Markov using ricin highlighted the forensic importance of detecting this poison. The present study aims to develop an analytical method, to facilitate detection and forensic analysis of ricin. The study employs visual characterization to examine the physical features of the seeds, and thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and UV visible spectrometry for chemical examination to confirm the presence of ricin. The research design involves conducting solvent extraction and TLC, followed by optical characterization by the use of UV-Vis spectrometry, for quick and unambiguous identification of ricin for forensic purposes. This study reports, for the first time, extensive morphological analysis of castor seeds, green solvent extraction and optimization of TLC. By developing an easy and effective method for the examination of castor seeds and ricin, this study provides a reliable additional test for detecting ricin in castor seeds, which is crucial for forensic and security purposes.
Marked By Belief: The Dark Superstition Of Child Branding
Branding often referred to by local tribal communities as ‘asaeba,’ ‘chapba,’ ‘lachba’ or ‘chenka is the process of inflicting burns on the skin of a living being. The act of branding in children, particularly as part of a superstitious belief, is harmful and unethical. It is essential to emphasize that branding or marking children can have severe physical and psychological consequences. Such actions are generally not supported by ethical or legal standards and can lead to serious harm to the child’s well-being. Two distinct cases were brought to the Pediatric Trauma and Emergency Department at the tertiary care center of Raipur: one involving a history of loss of consciousness, and the other presenting with seizures, both accompanied by multiple burn wounds over the body. Clinical forensic medicine unit consultation was sought in view of the unusual presentation of burn wounds, which upon detailed evaluation was found to be branding, a superstitious practice in villages with an intention to cure the disease. The act of branding as part of a superstitious belief is a culturally specific practice that can vary widely across societies and communities. It is crucial to approach these topics with cultural sensitivity and understanding of human rights and child welfare. A differential diagnosis of child abuse should be considered when dealing with such cases.
‘An Unusual Case Of Dyadic Death’- A Case Report
A dyadic death is a rare but tragic form of Premeditated violence that involves the death of two people at the same time (homicide followed by a suicide), or suicide pact, where a person kills another person and then commits suicide. Dyadic deaths make up a small proportion of homicide overall, commonly in low socio-economic, less educated or illiterate families. This is a case report on one such incident where the perpetrator killed the victim with whom he had a long-standing property dispute and also his own mother who tried to stop him from doing the act, following which he killed himself by shooting himself with a .315 pistol.
Examining The Unseen: Rare Homicide at Unusual Spot with Unusual Injury
male with an unusual firearm entry wound on the surface of the small intestinal loop, which was surgically exposed (open laparotomy wound), causing extensive internal damage and hemorrhage. The bullet recovered from the subcutaneous plane on the right side of the abdomen. The death was due to hemorrhagic shock caused by a firearm injury to the internal abdominal organs. What sets this case apart in the literature is not just the tragic nature of the event but the context in which it occurred—a hospital, a place inherently associated with safety and healing. In the landscape of forensic and medical literature, this case stands out because of the intersection of violence and healthcare, which challenges the norms of both fields. This incident highlights the critical need for enhanced security measures in hospitals to prevent violence against patients and doctors. This examination not only provides crucial insights into the nature of gunshot wounds and their impact on internal organs but also emphasizes the broader implications for hospital security and patient safety.
Exploring the Coroner System within the United States
In the present day, the United States does not have a standardized system in place for medicolegal death investigations. Within the 50 U.S. states and 16 territories, there is variability regarding whether the coroner or medical examiner system is utilized. These systems can then be broken down further into; centralized state medical examiner’s offices, county or district medical examiner’s offices, mixed system states (both coroners and medical examiners are utilized), and coroner-only states. Certain states may have coroners that are also under the title of “justice of the peace” (Texas) or “sheriff-coroner” (California). Below is a list of which states and territories fall into their respective systems:
Practicing Forensic Pathology in the USA
Before I give you some perspective on what it is like to practice forensic pathology in the United States, I would like to give you an idea of my professional background and education. My career as a pathologist extends for 56 years, and as a forensic pathologist/neuropathologist, 50/48 years. I have four boards in pathology: Anatomic Pathology, Clinical Pathology, Forensic Pathology, and Neuropathology. My comments are meant to provide you with a perspective on what some of my colleagues and I have experienced in practicing forensic pathology in the United States.
To Assess the Knowledge Attitude & Perception Towards Informed Consent Among Medical Students, Navi Mumbai
Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement in medical practice in both the field of research and therapeutics This ensures that patients are made aware of and agree to the proposedintervention. Medical students at all levels of education are taught to provide clear and understandable information about the risks, benefits, and alternatives to patients, allowing them to make autonomous and informed decisions. A cross-sectional study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding informed consent among medical students in and across Navi Mumbai. A cross-sectional,observational, questionnaire-based study was conducted using a validated questionnaire.
Human-wildlife conflicts, particularly those involving large predators like Panthera species (lions, leopards, and tigers), have become an increasing global public health concern in recent years, especially in Southeast Asia. These conflicts often result in serious injuries and fatalities within affected communities. While not uncommon, attacks by Panthera species can lead to devastating traumatic injuries due to the animals' strength and powerful bites. In this specific case, a worker at Abheda Biological Park entered the tiger enclosure and was attacked, sustaining multiple injuries that led to his death. Upon examination, the victim had numerous puncture and laceration wounds to the neck and chest, with internal injuries affecting the neck, lungs, and cervical spine. Serious injuries from wild animal attacks, especially from tigers, are commonly characterized by deep tissue damage and lacerations due to the animal’s powerful jaws and sharp teeth. This case report aims to highlight the specific injury patterns associated with tiger attacks, offering critical insights for healthcare providers. By understanding these patterns, medical professionals can be better equipped to treat the severe and often unique injuries resulting from such encounters in the future.
A Case Report on Traumatic Head Injury Leading to Air Embolism
A 15-year-old male was assaulted by several people living near his home. He had a few abrasions, contusions, and minor fractures of the skull bone. The patient survived for approximately 22 hours while undergoing conservative treatment. On post-mortem examination, frothy blood was seen coming out from the right ventricle, along with numerous air bubbles in the jugular veins and heart, eliciting the diagnosis of air embolism. The case presented here draws attention to the fact that a simple head injury, augmented by lapses in treatment due to a lack of suspicion, can lead to fatal degrees of air embolism.
Salvia divinorum – A New Entity in the Psychedelic Scene in India
Salvia divinorum is a psychoactive plant that produces intense hallucinations and is used as a recreational drug increasingly. The Mazatec Indians used it in spiritual healing sessions. The fact that the drug is easily available through the internet and the lack of restrictions on its use in many countries have contributed to its widespread abuse. There have also been reports of drugs being used in India.