Intermediate range (arm's length) gunshot wounds are characterised by stippling (tattooing) that CANNOT be wiped off. What constitutes the material responsible for tattooing in semi-jacketed or jacketed bullet wounds?
- A Soot (carbon particles) from burning propellant
- B Lead splash from bullet fragmentation at the barrel
- C Burnt and unburnt powder granules and metal fragments driven into the skin ✓
- D Wad (gas-seal material) from shotgun cartridges only
Correct answer: C. Burnt and unburnt powder granules and metal fragments driven into the skin
Explanation
Stippling (tattooing) consists of discrete pinpoint abrasions and haemorrhagic punctures in the skin caused by individual partially burned and unburned powder granules (gunpowder particles) and metal fragments striking the skin as small projectiles at intermediate range (approximately 15–120 cm depending on the weapon). They embed in the epidermis and dermis and cannot be wiped away (unlike soot which can). Soot is deposited at close range (<15 cm) and can be wiped off. Wad injury is specific to shotguns.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.