Forensic Path (lecture)

Question 1

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/361343570079614457/

What is the mechanism behind this lesion?

Answer 1

This is marbling: caused by perivascular decomposition by bacteria

Question 2

Carpet burn (get your mind out of the gutter) is an example of what type of injury?

Answer 2

Abrasion - a subtype of blunt force injury

Question 3

http://keeweedoc.com/2014/01/qotd7/

What is the medical term for this injury? How many strikes likely caused this?

Answer 3

Contusion
This was likely caused by a single strike. Remember that contusions may form adjacent to the sight of injury due to stretching, with the middle of the impact being left colorless.

Question 4

Patient presents with complaint of “fullness” of their left ear. You notice blue and red discoloration posterior to the external ear (http://roguemedic.com/2012/09/what-is-this-and-how-should-we-handle-it/). What type of injury is this? Name both the medical term and common term used to describe this.

Answer 4

This is called a battle sign and is an example of a contusion. It is commonly seen in concussive injury and may signify intracranial hemorrhage.

Question 5

You notice a yellow tint to a contusion on a patient. What is the minimum age of the injury and the physiology behind the color change?

Answer 5

It is at least 18 hours old. The change is due to the conversion of hemoglobin to biliverdin and bilirubin.

Question 6

What is the hallmark of lacerations when compared to incision?

Answer 6

Laceration will have bridging of soft tissue (nerves, dermis, etc.)

Question 7

A 60 year old female was brought to the emergency room after falling and fracturing her femur. No other injuries were found after significant workup. She dies of a sudden stoke two days later. Complete occlusion of the Circle of Willis was noted on autopsy. What is the most likely composition of the thrombus?

Answer 7

Fat: This is a rare complication of a significant bone fracture.

Question 8

What are the three types of sharp force injury covered in lecture and their discriminatory characteristics?

Answer 8

Stab/puncture: deeper than wide
Chop: wedge shaped
Incision: Longer than deep

Question 9

What is the main concern with puncture wounds?

Answer 9

There may be significant internal bleeding with minimal external injury.

Question 10

20 year old dead male brought to you after being found unconscious in his apartment. On autopsy, you notice petechiae, a swollen epiglottis, and fractured hyoid. What is the likely cause of death?

Answer 10

Strangulation. The petechiae indicate increased venule pressure. A swollen epiglottis and fractured hyoid are also indicative of a choking mechanism.