A laceration is found on the scalp. On inspection, there are tissue bridges, hair bulbs in the wound edges, and the margins are contused and irregular. Which weapon type is MOST likely responsible?
- A Sharp knife (incised wound)
- B Blunt weapon such as a hammer ✓
- C Firearm (gunshot wound)
- D Glass shard (sharp-edged)
Correct answer: B. Blunt weapon such as a hammer
Explanation
Lacerations caused by blunt force show: irregular and contused wound margins, tissue bridges (strands of connective tissue crossing the wound floor), hair bulbs visible in the edges (because the hair is forced in rather than cut), and foreign material from the weapon. These features distinguish blunt lacerations from incised wounds (clean edges, no bridges) or gunshot wounds (stellate tear, soot or stippling). Glass wounds may mimic incised wounds due to relatively sharp edges.
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.