A forensic expert examines an entrance gunshot wound that shows a circular defect with marginal abrasion collar, fouling (blackening) and gunpowder stippling around it. At what approximate muzzle-to-target range is this pattern MOST consistent with?

• A Intermediate range (15–60 cm) ✓
• B Contact range (<2 cm)
• C Close range (2–15 cm)
• D Long/distant range (>60 cm)

Explanation

At intermediate range (roughly 15–60 cm), the bullet carries gases, soot and unburnt powder grains that deposit around the wound as 'stippling' (tattooing from powder grains embedding in skin) while soot/fouling may still reach the target but is less dense than close range. Contact wounds show muzzle imprint, stellate laceration, and cherry-red coloration (CO absorption) deep in the track; close-range wounds (<15 cm) show heavy fouling and flame burning alongside stippling; distant wounds show only the abrasion collar without fouling or stippling. The key feature distinguishing intermediate from close range is the presence of stippling without heavy burning/soot.

Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.