An autopsy evaluation of defence wounds in 195 homicidal deaths due to stabbing.
Defence wounds may be of value in differentiating between homicide, suicide and accidental death. A study of 3183 forensic autopsies in Istanbul between 1988 and 1989 showed that 195 deaths (6.1%) were due to stab wounds, and that defence wounds were found in 38.5% of the victims. Defence wounds were seen on 35.2% of males, and 54.5% of females; 39.7% of defence wounds were classified as 'active' and 60.3% as 'passive'; 40.5% were seen on the right hand and forearm, and 59.5% on the left side. There was no connection in this study between the occurrence of defence wounds and the consumption of alcohol by the victim before the stabbing.
Cumhuriyet University School of Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, Sivas, Turkey.
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Katkici
M S
MS
Ozkök
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Orsal
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001344:Autopsy; D000431:Ethanol / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D006708:Homicide; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014421:Turkey; D014951:Wounds, Stab / Q000209:etiology*
D000431:Ethanol