The Istanbul Protocol (UN Manual on Effective Investigation and Documentation of Torture) classifies physical findings after torture using five levels of consistency. A finding described as 'consistent with' torture means:

• A The finding is unique to torture and could not have resulted from any other cause
• B The finding could have resulted from torture but is also seen in other conditions; it is compatible with torture but not specifically diagnostic ✓
• C The finding rules out torture with high certainty
• D The finding confirms the specific mechanism of torture described by the survivor

Explanation

The Istanbul Protocol uses five levels of consistency for physical findings: (1) Not consistent — finding is not typically caused by the described event; (2) Consistent with — compatible with described trauma but nonspecific (could have other causes); (3) Highly consistent — finding is typically caused by the described event, other causes less likely; (4) Typical of — specific lesion from this mechanism, rarely from other causes; (5) Diagnostic of — no other cause possible. 'Consistent with' is the second level, indicating compatibility but not specificity. This graduated language is critical in medico-legal reports to avoid over- or under-stating findings.

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.