Abstract
"Defense" type wounds are sustained when a victim is attempting to ward off an attacker, or a weapon. A 39-year-old woman is reported who was found deceased with incised wounds to the dorsa of both hands that resembled defense wounds. Examination of the flexor surfaces of both wrists, however, revealed horizontal incised wounds typical of self-infliction. Perfusion of the subclavian arteries produced leakage of water from peripheral veins within wounds on both hands and the right wrist. Death was due to exsanguination from incised wounds of the hands and right wrist; manner suicide. This case demonstrates the difficulties that may arise in differentiating self-inflicted from assaultive wounds. On occasion suicidal sharp force injuries may be multiple and in atypical locations. In these circumstances a high index of suspicion for homicide must be maintained.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
