Which of the following features BEST differentiates an entrance gunshot wound from an exit gunshot wound in a high-velocity rifle injury?
- A Entrance wounds have abraded collar; exit wounds are larger and irregular with everted edges ✓
- B Exit wounds are typically smaller and more regular
- C Both entrance and exit wounds have identical abrasion collars
- D Tattooing (stippling) is seen around exit wounds at close range
Explanation
An entrance gunshot wound is characterised by an abraded collar (grease/contusion ring) because the skin inverts as the bullet punches through; the wound is typically smaller than the bullet diameter due to skin elasticity. The exit wound is larger, irregular, and shows everted (outwardly punched) edges because the bullet, now possibly deformed and dragging bone fragments and tissue, creates a blow-out effect. Tattooing (powder stippling) is exclusively an entrance wound feature at intermediate range, reflecting unburnt powder grains embedding in skin.
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.