In the medico-legal examination of a female victim of alleged rape, which finding would MOST support the occurrence of recent forcible penile-vaginal penetration?

• A Rugosity of vaginal walls
• B Parous introitus with a patulous hymen
• C Hymenal remnant tags (carunculae myrtiformes)
• D Posterior fourchette abrasion with fissures ✓

Explanation

Posterior fourchette abrasions, fissures, and bruising are the most common objective findings in adult rape examination, occurring from forced penile penetration against taut posterior vaginal introital tissues. These are acute findings that must be documented within 72 hours for optimal detection. Rugosity indicates virginal vaginal mucosa and supports an intact hymen history but is not a specific assault indicator. A parous introitus and carunculae myrtiformes indicate past vaginal delivery, not recent assault. Absence of findings does NOT exclude assault, as many cases show no injuries.

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.