A defence wound is characteristically seen on which surface of the upper limb when a victim tries to ward off blows from a knife-wielding assailant?

• A Palmar surface of both hands
• B Medial aspect of the upper arms
• C Ulnar border and dorsal surface of the forearms ✓
• D Flexor aspect of the elbows

Explanation

Defence wounds are incised or stab wounds inflicted on the victim's own limbs while attempting to block an assailant's weapon. When shielding against a knife, the victim instinctively raises their arms with palms facing outward; the blade then strikes the ulnar border of the forearm and dorsum of the hand and fingers. These locations — particularly the ulnar forearm, dorsal hands, and interdigital web spaces — are the classic sites for defence wounds and strongly suggest homicide rather than suicide.

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.