Anatomical Location of Bitemarks and Associated Findings in 101 Cases from the United States

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to update and confirm previous studies that examined the anatomical location of human bitemarks. This information is useful to forensic odontologists and pathologists, physicians, and coroners who must be familiar with the most likely locations of bitemarks. The data are also useful for those involved in bitemark research. Using the legal database "Lexis," 101 bitemark cases were identified from the United States Courts of Appeal. Cases were included in the study if they provided details concerning the bitemark, such as anatomical location, number of injuries, and information concerning the victim. Information on 148 bites was collated. These data are presented in tabular and graphical form to allow comparisons between males and females, victims and perpetrators, adults and children, and the crime types associated with human bites.