A defence wound is most commonly found on the:

• A Posterior aspect of the scalp
• B Anterior chest wall
• C Bilateral lower legs
• D Ulnar border and dorsum of the forearm/hands, and the palms and fingers ✓

Explanation

Defence wounds occur when a victim attempts to ward off or parry an attack with sharp or blunt weapons by raising the arms. They are characteristically found on the ulnar border and extensor aspect of the forearms, the backs of the hands, and the palms and fingers. Cuts on the palm may also result from gripping a knife blade. In blunt force attacks, contusions and abrasions appear on the forearm extensor surfaces. The scalp, chest, and lower limbs are not typical sites for defence wounds. Their location and distribution help reconstruct the attack direction and victim-assailant positioning.

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.