Forensic medicine: is the application of medical and paramedical knowledge in

the administration of law and justice. Legal medicine and state medicine are other
names for it.
Medical jurisprudence: deals with the legal rights, privileges, duties and
obligations of medical practitioner.
Points to remember
1. Pin point pupils = Opium
2. Dilatation of pupils = Dhatura, Cyanide
3. Constriction of pupils = Opium, phenol, organo-phosphorus,
physostigmine, chloral hydrate.
4. Cumulative poisons are: Barbiturates, and methyl alcohol
5. Habit forming poisons are: Caffeine and Nicotine.
6. Addiction drugs are: Alcohol, Barbiturates, Coccaine, Cannabis, Chloral
hydrate, Opium, Pethidine.
7. Hemodialysis is good value in: Salicylate, methanol, barbiturate, and
aspirin (except kerosene oil and diazephem)
8. 1st sign of intra-uterine death: Gas shadow in aorta (as early as 12 hours).
9. Increased anion gap is seen in Salicylate poisoning, lactic acidosis, starvation.
10.Ideal suicide poison = Cyanide
11.Ideal homicide poison = Thallium, fluoride compounds.
12.Commonly used homicidal poisons: Arsenic, aconite
13.Commonly used suicidal poisons: Endrine, Opium, Barbiturates, Organophosphorus compounds.
14.Poison resembling cholera = Arsenic
15.Poison resembling tetanus = Strychnine
16.Poison resembling natural death = Thallium
17.Poison resembling fading measles = Arsenic
18.Poison resembling thyrotoxicosis = Bi-nitro compounds.
Tests for detecting poisons:

Arsenic = Marshs test, Reinschs test

Opium = Marquis test

Alcohol = Mcevans test

Datura = Mydriatic test

Phenol = Green urine.

IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER

1. The Percentage of blood alcohol in the stage of dead drunk is 0.5%.
2. Pisiform gets ossified by 12 yrs of age.
3. By 14 yrs. patella gets ossified.
4. Anterior fontanelle closes by 18 months of age.
5. The height of a child is double of birth height by 4 years of age,
6. Under IPC, a person below 7 years is not criminally responsible.
7. Fatal period of Datura poisoning is 24 hours.
8. In India, rigor mortis sets within 1-2 hours.
9. While dispatching blood and urine for chemical analysis, sodium fluoride is
added as preservative in concentration of 50 mg/10ml.
10.Critical level of alcohol in blood is 0.15%.
11.The minimum age for giving consent for surgery is 18 years.
12.In fractured ends of bone, soft provisional callus is formed by 15 hours.
13.The minimum time required for adipocere formation in a dead body is 21
days.
14.Indian Medical Council Act was enacted in 1956.
15.Mental retardation is I.Q. Below 70.
16.Ratio between ethyl alcohol in blood to urine is 1:1.33
17.Gas rigidity appears after 72 hours.
18.Marbling is noticed by 36 hours.
19.Full development of rigor mortis takes about 12 hours.

20.In exhumation, 6-7 samples of earth are collected.

21.Intercourse with wife below 15 years of age is considerable rape.
22.Fatal period of aconite isusually 1-5 hours.
23.Cooling of body is gradual upto 1-3 hours.
24.Hypostasis is mottled within first 3 hours of death.
25.Killing range of a militry rifle is 3000 yards.
26.Juvenile offender is a person under 16 years
27.The dispersion of pellets is seen usually at distance beyond 10 feet.
28.In a gunshot wound, the presence of singeing of hair or charring of skin
denotes a fire up to 18 inches.
29.Dispersion of pellets in shotgun injury is calculated as dispersion in inches =
1.5 times the dispersion in yards.
30.An infant born before 210 days is not legally considered capable of
maintaining a separate existence.
31.A bruise showing bluish black discolouration is 4 days old.
32.The upper limit of safety for carbon monoxide in air is 0.01%.
33.Rh positivity in India is 93%.
34.In an abrasion, the scab usually dries and falls between 4-6 days.
35.Fatal dose of opium is 2 gm.
36.The range of an air rifle is about 90 yards.
37.Mixed dentition is seen in children between 6-12 years of age.
38.Basisphenoid unites the basi-occiput at the age to 22 years.
39.First permanent molar appears at age of 6-7 years.
40.Judicial first class Magistrate can pass a sentence of imprisonment upto 3
years.
41.Age of maturity for those under court of wards is 21 years. In India, sexual
maturity is gained at 14 years of age.
42.The degree of accuracy in determining sex from long bones is 80%.

43.Fatal period of sulphuric acid poisoning is 18-24 hours.

44.Multiplying factors for estimating stature from humerus and femur in males
are 5-5.3 and 3.6-3.8 respectively.
45.Colliquative liquefaction is seen within 1 week after death.
46.A contusion assumes green colour by 6 days.
47.Marriage age for boys and girls are 21 years and 18 years respectively.
48.Internal organs take 24 hours to cool. A person becomes major at the age of
18 years. Eruption of temporary teeth is completed by 2 to 2.5 years.
49.Foetal parts can be detected on plain X-ray usually by 16 weeks.
50.Child below 12 years is not required to take an oath.
51.Xiphoid process unites with sternum at age of 40 years.
52.Cranial capacity is 10% less in females.
53.Nuclear features persist in decomposition for a period of 2-3 years.
54.Precipitin test is positive to be opium in dead body upto 10 years.
55.After death, benzidine test is positive upto 150 years. Bones begin to
decompose after death in 3-10 years.
56.Less than 7 aminoacids in bone suggest age of bone after death as more than
100 years. The rate of cooling of body in first 6 hours is 2.5F and in next 6
hours as 1.5-2.0cF. Victim of drowning in a state of suspended animation can
be revived as long as 10-20 minutes.
57.Centre of ossification for pisiform bone appears at an age of 10-12 years.
58.The floatation time in summer for a dead body after drowning is one day.
59.The age of 15 years old female is best determined by the radiography of
upper end of radius and ulna.
60.Maggots in a dead body do not appear before 48 hours.
61.Hairs become loose after 72 hours of death.
62.Epiphyseal union of sternal end of clavicle occurs at age of 22 years.
63.Washer womans hands and feet usually occur within 12-18 hours.
64.Saponification in drowning occurs in about 5 weeks.

65.Death ensues in about 5 mts. of complete submersion.

66.By ABO.RH, MN systems the exclusion of Paternity is about 50%.
67.Estimation of Age from eruption of teeth is possible upto 17 to 21 years of
age. Gustafsons method for estimation age of adult over 21 years.
68.In poisoning by salicylates, the Gastric lavage is useful upto 24 hours.
69.The age of consent for medical examination in cases of rape is minimum 12
years.
70.If a person is absent from his usual haunts, and has not been heard for 7
hears, he is presumed to be dead.
71.Infanticide means unlawful destruction of child below 1 year of age.
72.By ABO, Rh, MN systems the exclusion of Paternity is about 50%
73.Estimation of Age from eruption of teeth is possible upto 17 to 21 years of
age
74.In poisoning by salicylates, the Gastric lavage is useful upto 24 hours
75.The age of consent for medical examination in cases of rape is minimum 12
years
76.In sin of Gomorrah, buccal swabs are useful upto 9 hours
77.In most countries, breath alcohol concentration 35 mg/100 ml is considered
an offence After absorption, the ratio of alcohol in blood and urine is constant
and is 1:1.31 Histologically, reticulum fibres in an abrasion are seen on 8 days
78.Widmarks formula for urine analysis of alcohol is 3/4 prq
79.Pancreas constitute 0.1% of body weight
80.Punishment for false evidence is given under section 193 of IPC
81.Length of a female larynx is about 3.8 cm
82.Calcification of third molar begins at 8-10 years.
83.Lip prints on cheiloscopy are divided into 8 patterns
84.1gm tablet of aluminium phosphide is able to liberate 1.0 gm
85.The diameter of human hair at 15 years of age is 0.053 ram *
86.Alcohol gaze nystagmus is produced at an average blood levels of 80 mg%

87.The residual alcohol in mouth takes about 20 min to disappear and within this
period breath analyser test may be false positive
88.Skeletal muscles constitute about 29% of body weight
89.Term under the influence of alcohol is used when blood concentration is
80-100mg%
90.Statutory rape is rape under 15 years of age
91.Weight for occluding internal jugular vein hanging is 2 kg
92.Majority of deaths due to Aluminium phosphide occurs in within 24 hours
93.During sleep, rectal temperature is 0.5-1.0C lower
94.Drowned body floats in about 12-18 hours in summer S
95.Bones constitute about 12% of body weight
96.Absence of III molar tooth indicates that the person is definitely under the
age of 17 years
97.In a dead body, maggots in rainy day are seen in 6 hours.
98.Arsenic, Aconite and Dhatura are generally used as homicidal poisons.
99.Ricin is the active principle of croton oil seed.
100.

Abrin is the active principle of abrus precatorius.

101.

Soneryl is a coloured babriturate.

102.

Breath alcohol can be measured by Alcometer or Drunkometer.

103.

The fatal dose of Dhatura is about one grain.

104.

Physostigmine can be regarded as the specific antidote of Dhatura.

105.

Amygdaline is the glucosides of vegetable origin found in cyanides.

106.

The process of putrefaction can be retarded by carbon monoxide gas.

107.

Euthanasia means Mercy killing.

108.

Joule burn is seen in electrocution.

109.

Amyl nitrate is an antidote for poisoning due to hydrocyanic acid.

110.
Olive green discoloration of urine on exposure to air is seen in
poisoning due to carbolic acid.

111.

Overlying is a type of smothering.

112.
Optic atrophy is the characteristic feature of poisoning by methyl
alcohol.
113.
Dryness of mouth, dilated pupils and delirium are symptoms of
Dhatura poisoning. (All Ds)
114.

The first permanent tooth to erupt is first molar.

115.

Dying declaration can be recorded by a medical officer.

116.
Presence of fine white leathery froth in mouth and nostrils is seen in
drowning.
117.

Privation of any member of joint is a grievous hurt.

118.
Pugilistic attitude is seen in burn death due to coagulation of
proteins.
119.

Dying declaration should be recorded by Magistrate.

120.

Nalorphine is an antidote for morphine.

121.

Locards principle states that every contact leaves a trace.

122.

The strongest corrosive poison is sulphuric acid.

123.

Arborescent markings are seen in lightening.

124.
Before performing Postmortem examination, body should be identified
by Policemen.
125.
Warrant case means a case relating to an offence punishbale with
death, imprisonment for life or for a term exceeding two years.
126.
In civil cases, a reasonable sum for travelling expenses is generally
tendered when the summons is served. This is known as conduct money. It is
paid by the party that has called his as a witness.
127.
Hair cells are of special interest in cell sexing since both Barr body and
Y chromosome can be demonstrated.
128.
Nails, hairs and long bones are preserved in cases of chronic arsenic
poisoning.
129.

Postmortem fibrinous clots in heart are known as Cardiac polyp.

130.

The surest sign of death is putrefaction.

131.

The rigor mortis start first at upper eye-lids.

132.
Dribbling of saliva from the angle of the mouth is generally considered
as the surest sign of hanging.
133.

Presence of soot in respiratory tract is the surest sign of burn.

134.
Strong sulphuric acid when thrown on the face of a person is known as
Vitreol throwing.
135.

Black gun powder consists of potassium nitrate, sulphur, and charcoal.

136.

Nitrocellulose or Nitroglycerine is used as a smokeless gun powder.

137.
Richochette bullet is one which strikes any other surface before
striking the object.
138.

The pulmonary lesion in the injury of air blast is called Blast lung.

139.

Loss of virginity is called defloration.

140.

The Buccal coitus is called Sin of Gomorrah.

141.
The commission of sexual assalut upon a dead body is called
Necrophily.
142.
will.

Testamentary capcity is the capacity of a person to make a valid

143.
Malpraxis is defined as want of reasonable skill and or willful
negligence on the part of doctor resulting in deterioration of patients health
or his death.
144.

Copper sulphate is used as an antidote to phsophorus.

145.
Gyroget are cartridges or miniature rockets driven by solid fuel,
which produces considerable heat and smokeless gas on burning.
146.

Forensic means courts of law.

147.
Deposition means a statement on oath made by a witness in a judicial
proceeding. It is taken down in writing and signed by the witness and
magistrate.
148.
Document means any matter expressed or described upon any
substance by means of letters, figures or marks, or by more than one of these
means.

149.
Evidence includes all legal means which help to prove or disprove any
matter of fat, the truth of which is submitted to judicial investigation. It can
be oral (direct, indirect or hearsay), documentary & circumstantial.
150.
Hurt is defined as bodily pain, disease or infirmity caused to any
person.
151.
Injury includes every inquiry other than a trial, conducted by a
Magistrate or court.
152.
Investigation includes all the proceedings for the collection of evidence
conducted by a Police officer or by any person other than a magistrate who is
authorised by a magistrate on his behalf.
153.
Jury means a body of persons sworn to render verdict in a court of
justice. It is composed of uneven number and not less than 7 and more than
9 persons.
154.
Metropolitan area means any area in the state comprising a city or a
town whose population exceeds one millin.
155.
Offence means any act of omission made punishable by law for the
time being in force.
156.

Perjury means wilful utterance of falsehood under oath.

157.

Plantif is one who brings an action in a court of law.

158.
Summons case means a case relating to an offence punishable with
imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years
159.
Testimony means the evidence, oral or written, of a witness under
under oath.
160.
Warrant means a written authority under hand and seal. It is used for
the arrest of persons or for their forcible production in a court of law
161.

Traumatic rupture of hymen is seen on posterolateral aspect.

162.
Taylor gave a formula on rate of decomposition of dead body in air,
water and earth.
163.
Most reliable method of determining personal identity
is Dactylography.
164.

Contre-Coupe injury is seen in head injury.

165.

Strychnine acts on anterior horn cells.

166.
Last organ to putrefy in mate is prostate whereas in female it is
ungravid uteus.
167.

In Carboluria, urine turns green on exposure to air.

168.

Cyanide poisoning produces cherry red colour.

169.

McEwens sign is seen in alcoholism.

170.

Cutis anserina is seen in drowning.

171.

Shaking palsy or mad Hatters is seen with mercury poisoning.

172.

Poison which can be detected in burnt bodies in arsenic.

173.

Cepahlic index helps in identification of race.

174.

Tentative cuts are seen in suicides.

175.

Pugilistic attitude is seen in antemortem or postmortem burns.

176.

Death in police custody is investigated by Magistrate.

177.

Precipitin test is used to identify human blood in stains.

178.

Gelsimium is a spinal cord poison.

179.

Desferroxamine is antidote used in iron poisoning.

180.

Spaldings sign is seen in maceration.

181.

Impotence is inability to perform the sexual act.

182.

Smack is crude form of heroin.

183.

Ganja is obtained from flowering tops.

184.

Stomach may be greenish in poisoning due to nitric acid.

185.

Lines of Zahn are present in antemortem clots.

186.

Conium is a peripheral poison.

187.

Emphysema aqueosum is seen in wet drowning.

188.

Formication (Magnans symptom) is seen in cocaine dependence.

189.

Rigor mortis is simulated by cadaveric spasm.

190.

Thorn apple is Datura stramonium.

191.

Dirt collar is seen in fire arm entry wound.

192.

Apoplexy is cerebral congestion.

193.

Feminine of impotence is frigidity.

194.
In oath taking, a medical man does not require to keep his hands on a
holy book.
195.

Thanatology is science that deals with death.

196.
Number of hours since death is calculated by multiplying the fall in
rectal temperature with 0.67.
197.

Dichotomy is related to splitting of fees.

198.
Fracture of hyoid bone in a case of strangulation is commonly seen in
the greater horn.
199.
In a fresh case of death due to ventricular fibrillation, heart at
postmortem will be flabby.
200.

Punctate basophilia is seen in lead poisoning.

201.

Felony is a category of rape, murder or burglary.

202.

Testamentary capacity is related to will.

203.

McNaughten was an accused.

204.
Accepted procedure of first aid for cafe coronary is Heimlich
manoeuvre.
205.
Mode of death from obstruction of air passages from within is anoxic
anoxia.
206.

Brain may be preserved in normal saline or rectified spirit.

207.

CSF is preserved in poisoning due to alcohol.

208.

Long bones are preserved inpoisoning due to arsenic, lead or antimony.

209.

Exhumation is usually done in the early morning.

210.

In India, Exhumation is done for Mohammadans and Christians.

211.
Macroscopically and microscopically, there will not be any change to
the heart in case of myocardial infarction death up to 8 hours.
212.

Foamy liver is due to bubbing up of gas.

213.

Leukocyte alkaline phosphatase level is low in CML.

214.

The essential lesion of coronary atherosclerosis is found in intima.

215.

The classical site of ischaemic colitis is splenic flexure.

216.
The rigor mortis disappears in the order of eyelids, neck, thorax, lower
lumbs (in the order of appearance).
217.

Primary relaxation is stage of somatic death.

218.
After death, the onset of putrefaction is in the stage of secondary
relaxation.
219.

Species of origin of blood is determined by precipitin test.

220.
It is a criminal offence in India, for a person to drive a motor vehicle
after consuming alcohol.
221.

Dum dum bullet is so called because tip is chiselled off.

222.

Cyanides mainly affect Cytochrome oxidase.

223.

In electrocution, death is most often due to ventricular fibrillation.

224.

Le facies sympathique is seen in hanging.

225.

The characteristic sign of Korsakoff psychosis is amnesia.

226.

Aconite is most commonly used as a homicidal poison.

227.

Alcohol is maximally absorbed from small intestine.

228.

Absolute alcohol has 99.95% alcohol.

229.
Visceras obtained from a body due to death from alcoholic intoxication
are preserved is suprasaturated saline.
230.

In strychnine poisoning, rigor mortis sets in early and lasts shortly.

231.

A short barreled rifle is called carbine.

232.

The most fragile bone in skull to get fractured is temporal

233.

The most common type of skull fracture is fissure.

234.

Rigor mortis sets early in cases with deaths due to apoplexy.

235.

In cadaveric spasm, stage of primary relaxation is missing.

236.

Heat stiffening is due to exposure of body to temperature above 75C.

237.
The presence of blackening, tatooing and scortching in a shotgun injury
indicates distance of fire upto 3 feet.
238.

Lucid interval is seen in extradural haemorrhage and insanity.

239.

In forgeries, oxalic acid is used as ink remover solution.

240.

Pond fracture (of skull) is found in children.

241.
Blasting effect is usually seen in a firearm injury from point blank
range.
242.

Olive oil is used in stomach wash in carbolic acid poisoning.

243.
Fracture of middle cranial fossa causes injury to VII and VIII cranial
nerves.
244.

Histologically amyloid deposits always begin intercellularly.

245.

Ischiopubic index is significantly more in females.

246.
Unconsciousness occurs immediately after head injury due to
concussion.
247.
A female has more sternal index, ischiopubic index and sciatic notch
index.
248.

Ewings postulates refer to accidents as a cause of death.

249.
Loss of muscular coordination and staggering gait are seen in patient
with blood alcohol concentration of 150-300
250.

Dinitro compounds poisoning resembles thyrotoxicosis.

251.

Aconite is known as Sweet poison.

252.

CuSO4 is antidote of Phosphorus.

253.

Foders test compares weight of lungs to the body.

254.

Diaphanus test denotes that after death, finger webs lose their lusture.

255.
Gaping of deep incised wound is dependent on cleavage lines of
Langer.
256.
When a patient is injured or dies due to some unintentional act during
treatment by a doctor or agent of the doctor or known as therapeutic
misadventure.
257.

Glass blowers shakes are seen with poisoning due to mercury.

258.

Run amok is sometimes seen with cannabis.

259.

Abrus is viper-like poison.

260.

Bluish green hypostasis is seen in H2S poisoning

261.

Marquis test is used in opium poisoning.

262.

Datura is also known as Road poison.

263.

Marshs test and Reinsch test are used in arsenic poisoning.

264.

Exposure to nickel causes carcinoma nasopharynx.

265.

Best test for seminal stain is Florence test.

266.

Fall of a tooth is grievous injury.

267.
To conduct a postmortem, an authorisation letter is necessary from
police officer, magistrate and coroner.
268.
A consent is invalid of obtained from a person who is intoxicated,
insane or under threat.
269.

In India, exhumation has no time limit.

270.

Colour changes of putrefaction are first observed in iliac fossa.

271.

Dipsomania is seen with alcohol.

272.

Subpoena is a seen kind of document.

273.
In exhumated bodies, the poison likely to be detected most
significantly is arsenic.
274.
Postmortem in a newborn is done by opening first the abdominal
cavity.
275.

Tests for circulation are Magnus, Diaphanous and Icards.

276.

Compressed air is used to fire lead slugs in air rifle.

277.

Most important sign of defloration is ruptured hymen.

278.

Cafe coronary occurs when a person is intoxicated.

279.

Overlying is a type of smothering.

280.

Death in fresh water in comparison to salt water is earlier.

281.

Bevelling of inner table of skull is seen in fire arm entry wound.

282.

In burking, cause of death is traumatic asphyxia.

283.

Bansdola is a form of homicidal strangulation.

284.

Convincing proof of burial alive is sand in trachea and bronchi.

285.

In India. Coroners courts are held in Bombay.

286.

Corpus delict deals with body of crime.

287.

Burking is a name derived from person.

288.

Bullet is picked up with hands.

289.
The process which causes the drying up of tissues and internal viscera
to a sufficient degree to halt putrefaction is called mummification.
290.

The most important cause of temporary impotence is fear.

291.
Minimum quantity of blood required to be preserved to mineral
poisoning.
292.

Superimposition is technique most useful for identification from skull.

293.

Brown atrophy of heart is seen in starvation deaths.

294.

Most common type of finger impression is loop.

295.

Lead poisoning is common in children.

296.
Presence of alveolar duct membrane in foetal autopsies in indicative of
live birth.
297.

The science of finger print was first demonstrated by Francis.

298.
Karl Pearson formula is used to calculate stature of the individual from
long bones.
299.

Filigree burns are due to lightening.

300.

The commonest homicidal poison used in India is Arsenic.

301.

BAL is contraindicated in liver damage.

302.
KCN is ineffective as a poison if kept for long time, patient takes excess
of carbohydrate or suffers from achlorhydria.
303.

Inquiry into circumstances of death is called inquest report.

304.

Non-poisonous pure metals are mercury, copper and lead.

305.

Phossy Jaw is produced by chronic white phosphorus poisoning.

306.

Ptysalism is seen in copper poisoning.

307.

Chloral hydrate is also called knockout drops or Micky Finn.

308.

Chromodacryorrhoea is sometimes preapilated by organophosphorus

309.

Rape is a cognizable offence.

310.
To make a positive identification with the help of a partial finger print,
the points of similarity should be at least 16.
311.

The most striking symptoms of pregnancy is cessation of menstruation.

312.

The most reliable chemical test for blood is benzidine test.

313.
The position colour of tests for blood are Benzidine test (Blue),
Guiacum test (deep blue), Kastle Meyer test, Leucomalachite test (Peacock
blue), Haemin Crystal (dark brown).
314.

Takayama reagent is used in haemochromogen test.

315.

Heat stiffening is due to coagulation of albumin.

316.

Term immerssion foot is used for cases with frost bite.

317.

Boxers attitude is seen in persons dying of burns.

318.

III and IV degree of burns are most painful.

319.

Smokeless gun powder is composed of nitrocellulose.

320.

Gunshot wound is a type of perforated wound.

321.

Supreme Court is purely an appellate Court.

322.
Police inquest can be done by a person not below the rank of subinspector.
323.

Haemodilution occurs in fresh water drowning.

324.

In chronic mercury poisoning, face is first affected.

325.

Wrist drop and foot drop may be seen in poisoning with lead.

326.

After taking cyanide, patient first feels numbness in extremities.

327.

Nux vomica seeds contain 2 alkaloids, strychnine and brucine.

328.

Lynching is a form of homicidal hanging.

329.

Arrow poison is nux vomical (also called Kuchila).

330.

Commonest industrial metal poisoning is by lead.

331.

Haemorrhagic spots are found in poisoning by thallium.

332.

Amyl nitrate is antidote of cocaine poisoning.

333.

In sea water drowning, there is steep rise in Na+ and Mg++.

334.

Cadaveric spasm occurs immediately after death.

335.

Least common type of finger prints is composite.

336.

Preauricular sulcus is useful for identification of sex.

337.

Seminal emission is common in hanging.

338.
In methyl alcohol poisoning treatment recommended is ethyl alcohol
and sodium bicarbonate.
339.

The presence of fine white leathery froth in mouth indicates drowning.

340.

Lower end of femur can help to determine the age.

341.

Resipsa Loquitur means evidence speaks for itself.

342.

Resorption elution technique is used for detection of blood stains.

343.

In females, obturator foramen is triangular shaped.

344.

Absorption of lead is mainly through lung.

345.

Incised like lacerated wound appears at forehead.

346.
Medical jurisprudence is the subject concerned with knowledge of law
in relation to the practice of medicine. In a nutshell, it deals with legal
aspects of medical practice.
347.
Crime means a social harm which has been defined and made
punishable by law.
348.
No conduct money is paid in criminal cases, however, provision is
made by the Govt under sec. 312 Cr PC for payment of reasonable expenses
of an expert witness attending before any criminal court.
349.
The body is exhumed only when there is a written order issued by 1st
class Chief Judicial or Executive magistrate or the Coroner. There is not time
limit for exhumation in India.

350.
Puterfaction is the surest sign of death. The earliest sign is manifested
as greenish discoluration in the right ilic fossa.
351.

Heat stiffening is due to coagulation of albumin and muscle proteins.

352.
Cold stiffening is due to solidfication of fats when body is exposed to
very low temperatures
353.
Presence of blood stained froth in the air passage and diatoms in
internal visceras and bone marrow is considered surest sign of drowning.
354.
The chief post mortem finding in case of starvation is distended gall
bladder.
355.

Heat exhaustion is caused by dehydration and salt deficiency.

356.
Presence of soot in the respiratory passage is the surest sign of antemortem burn.
357.

Diatoms resist putrefaction.

358.
About 1900 cals is the minimum daily dieteic requirement below which
manifestations of starvation appear.
359.
For estimating surface area in burnt patient Wallaces Rule of Nine
has been employed.
360.
The Taser Gun is a device for immoblizing vicitims by using electric
current without causing death or serious injury.
361.

In drowning, Paltauf s haemorrhages are seen subpleurally in the lungs

362.

Molecular death is more significant medico-legally than somatic death.

363.
Semen contains more than double quantity of CPK than any other body
fluid. Levels over 400 units are almost diagnostic. The enzyme is stable and
can be demonstrated as late as 6 months after soiling.
364.

Hanging is one of the common forms of suicide among men.

365.
Judicial hanging is the official method of execution of death sentence.
The dislocation often takes place between the 2nd & 3rd cervical vertebra.
366.
Dribbling of saliva is the vital sign of ante-mortem hanging and is due
to stimulation of salivary glands by ligature.
367.
Lynching is homicidal hanging where several persons acting jointly
overpower an individual and hang him by means of a rope to a tree or like
object.

368.

Strangulation is almost always homicidal.

369.
In strangulation, ligature completely encricles the neck horizontally
below thyroid cartilage. Injury to carotid arteries common. Bleeding from
nose, mouth and ears. Emphysematous patches on lungs are commonly seen
during postmortem examination, fracture of hyoid bone commonly occurs in
throttling (near the greater cornua).
370.
Smothering is a form of asphyxia caused by mechanical occlusion of
the external air passages viz. the nose and the mouth by hands, cloth or any
other material.
371.
Overylaying or compression suffocation results due to compression of
the chest so as to prevent breathing. It is common method of infanticide.
372.

Burking is a method of homicidal smothering and traumatic asphyxia.

373.
Drowning is a form of asphyxia due to aspiration of fluid into air
passage, caused by submersion in water or other fluid.
374.

Death ensues rapidly in fresh water than in salt water or sea water.

375.

The fine froth at the mouth and nose in pathognomonic of drowning.

376.
Cutis anserina or goose skin has no value as a diagnostic sign of death
from drowning. Diatoms test is negative in dead bodies thrown in water or in
dry drowning.
377.
In a typical case of drowning, diatoms are found in brains and bone
marrow.
378.

Drowning is one of the commonest form of suicide amongst females.

379.

Buccal coitus is Sin of Gomorrah.

380.

Strychnine poisoning resembles tetanus / epilepsy / hysteria.

381.

Thallium resembles natural death.

382.
Exhumation is done: In presence of police officer. In the supervision of
Medical Officer. Written order from 1st class Magistrate or coroner.
383.

Most common mode of death in strangulation is Asphyxia.

384.

The common mode of choking is Accidental.

385.

Caffey syndrome is Battered baby syndrome.

386.
In judicial hanging, fracture/dislocation of the vertebrae at the level of
C3 and C4 vertebra.
387.
In Asphyxia, the place where the Tardieu spots occur in lung is
interlobar fissures. Forensic thanatology deals with Medicolegal study of
death.
388.

In dental fluorosis, the teeth are characterised by mottled enamel.

389.
Wredens testfor deleting the presence of air in middle ear for
determining live birth or dead foetus.
390.
The rules for criminal responsibility of Insane: Mc Naughtens rule,
Durhams rule, Currents rule
391.
Blood group of Parents, Child group possible: OxO i.e 0000 = 0, A
x B i.e OA x OB = O, A, B, AB. All are possible, OxA i.e OOxOA = O, A.
392.

Macerated body of a foetus indicatesdead-born.

393.

Cadaveric spasm (Instantaneous rigor) affects voluntary muscles only.

394.

The most dependent means of identification of persons is finger prints.

395.
If a person survives after giving dying declaration, it can be used as
corroborative evidence.
396.
Paraffin test or dermal nitrate test detects Gunpowder residue on
hands.
397.

Knockout agents: Chloral hydrate, Potassium bromide

398.

Saturday night paralysis due to pressure on the Radial nerve.

399.

Leading questions are permissible in cross-examination.

400.
Preservation used to preserve the urine for chemical analysis is Thymol
crystals.
401.

In Arsenic poisoning, putrefaction is delayed.

402.

Arsenic is employed for embalming of Cadaver.

403.

Subendocardial haemorrhages in Arsenic poisoning.

404.
The poison which is found in maximum quantities in various organs in
Postmortem is Arsenic.
405.

Poisoning resembling fading measles Arsenic.

406.

Optic atrophy occurs in Methyl Alcohol poisoning.

407.
Minimum Alcohol consumed by person, estimated by Widmarks
formula.
408.

Widmarks formula, to determine Quantity of Alcohol consumed.

409.
The preservative used for viscera in Alcohol poisoningSaturated
sodium chloride solution.
410.

Barbiturates increase the toxicity of Alcohol by Synergism.

411.

Methylated spirit contains95% Rectified spirit and 5% Methyl alcohol.

412.
413.

The common preservative for visceraRectified spirit

The organs that resist putrefactionuterus (Non pregnant); Prostate.

414.
The poisons which Resist putrefactionArsenic, Edrin, Datura,
Strychnine.
415.

Thick and leathery stomach wall in Phenol poisoning.

416.
Ochronosis (Pigmentation of skin and cartilages) in Phenol
poisoning.
417.

In Phenol poisoning Urine is green coloured.

418.
Delicate and reliable test for Blood stainsTakayamas test
(Hemochromogen crystal test).
419.

Teichman test for blood stains is Haemin Crystal test.

420.
Extremely delicate test for Blood stainsPhenophthalein test (KastleMayer test).
421.
The best test for Blood stainsChromatography absorption
spectroscopy.
422.

Leukomalachite green test is a chemical test for Blood.

423.

In severe burns, remnant indicative of Male sexInguinal canal.

424.
Carbonaceous soot particles in Respiratory tract suggesive of
Antemortem burns.
425.
Lichetenbergs flowers or filigree burns or Arborescent markings is
seen in Lightening.
426.

In chemical burns by CorrosivesVesication does not occur.

427.

Paltaufs haemorrhages (usually in lower lobes of lungs) in Drowning.

428.

Immersion syndrome is due toVagal inhibition

429.

Froth may be absent in case of death due to Dry drowning.

430.

The specimen used for Diatoms testSternal bone marrow.

431.

Salt water drowning Increased.

432.
Postmortem staining:
Usually mistaken for Contusion.
occur before death in Cholera.
433.

Hypostasis or cadaveric lividity Postmortem staining.

434.

Purple colour in Asphyxia.

435.

Blue green colur in Hydrogen sulphide poisoning.

436.

Blue vitreolCopper sulfate.

437.

VerdigrisCopper subacetate.

438.

Green line on the gums in Copper poisoning.

439.

Most potent of all preparations of cannabis is Charas.

Can

440.
Stomach wash in opium poisoning, done with Potassium
permanganate.
441.

In opium poisoning, there is loss of all secretions except sweat.

442.

In opium poisoning, atropine is contraindicated.

443.

Methaemoglobinaemia is caused by poisoning due to Nitrates.

444.
Antidote used in common types of poisonous shakes, in India includes
polyvalent antisnake venom.
445.

Viperbite like poisonAbrus.

446.

Sea snake venomMyotoxic.

447.

Diwali poisons are Mercury, phosphorous.

448.

Nephrotoxic poisonsPhenol, Oxalicacid, Mercury.

449.
450.

Blotting paper like stomach in sulphuric acid poisoning.

Sodium nitrate looks and tastes like common salt.

451.

Tingling of skin and tongue by Aconite poisoning.

452.

Tannic acid precipitates alkaloids.

453.
is:

Physiological antidote produce symptoms opposite to those of poison

454.

AtropinePhysostigmine

455.

CyanideAmyl nitrite

456.

StrychnineBarbiturate

457.
In phosphorous poisoning, avoid oil and fats as they increase
absorption.
458.

In Endrin poisoning, the pupils are dilated.

459.

Albumin helps to precipitate in Mercury poisoning.

460.

Lead poisoning, causes constipation.

461.
In Potassium permanganate poisoning, lesions resemble Tertiary
syphilis.
462.
bite.

Symptoms of Abrus precautorius poisoning resemble viperine snake

463.

Cocaine acts as an Aphrodisiac.

464.

Charas is known as Hashish.

465.
In treatment of Nuxvomica poisoning, most important is I.V. injection of
Barbiturates.
466.

Pupils show alternate contraction and dilatation in Aconite poisoning.

467.

Charcoal acts as a mechanical Antidote.

468.
Potassium ferrocyanide solution is used as gastric lavage solution of
poisoning due to copper sulphate.
469.
Skin and mucous membranes are colored yellow in poisoning due to
nitric acid.
470.

Delayed poisoning by oxalic acid is characterised by Uraemia.

471.

Large amount of water is contraindicated in Oxalic acid poisoning.

472.

Hypocalcemia can occur in Oxalic acid poisoning.

473.

Hypocalcemia can occur in Oxalic acid poisoning.

474.

Oxalic acid resemblesMagnesium sulfate.

475.

Coffee ground vomitus is seen in Oxalic acid poisoning.

476.

Datura seeds look likeBrinjal seeds capsicum seeds or Tomato seeds.

477.

Physiological antidote for Datura poisoningPilocarpine

478.

Stupefying poisonDatura.

479.

Road poisonDatura.

480.
If a person survives after giving dying declaration, it can be used as
corroborative evidence
481.

Arsenic is employed for embalming of Cadaver

482.

Subendocardial haemorrhages are seen in Arsenic poisoning

483.
The poison which is found in maximum quantities in various organs in
Postmortem is Arsenic
484.

Poisoning resembling fading measles Arsenic

485.
The preservative used for viscera in Alcohol poisoning Saturated
sodium chloride solution
486.

Barbiturates increase the toxicity of Alcohol by Synergism

487.

Methylated spirit contains 95% Rectified spirit and 5% Methyl alcohol

488.
The poisons which Resist putrefaction are Arsenic, Edrin, Datura,
Strychnine
489.

Thick and leathery stomach wall is seen in Phenol poisoning

490.
Ochronosis (Pigmentation of skin and cartilages) is seen in Phenol
poisoning
491.
Extremely delicate test for Blood stains Phenophthalein test (KastleMayer test).
492.
The best test for Blood stains is Chromatography absorption
spectroscopy
493.

In severe burns, remnant indicative of Male sex is inguinal canal

494.
Lichetenbergs flowers or filigree burns or Arborescent markings are
seen in Lightening
495.

In chemical burns by Corrosives Vesication does not occur

496.

Immersion syndrome is due to Dry drowning

497.

Rule of House is used for calculating age of the fetus-

498.

PM staining usually mistaken for -Contusion

499.

PM staining can occur before death in Cholera

500.

Most potent of ail preparations of cannabis is Charas

501.

Amenorrhoea and infertility can occur in Chronic lead poisoning

502.
If a person is absent from his usual haunts, and has not been heard for
at least 7 years, he is presumed to be dead
503.

In opium poisoning there is loss of all secretions except sweat

504.

In opium poisoning, atropine is contraindicated

505.

Strongest corrosive poison is sulphuric acid

506.
Antidote used in common types of poisonous snakes in India includes
polyvalent antisnake venom
507.

Viperbite like poison is Abrus

508.

Sea snake venom is Myotoxic

509.

Diwali poisons are Mercury, phosphorus

510.

Blotting paper like stomach is seen in sulphuric acid poisoning

511.

Spinal poisoning may be mistaken commonly for Tetanus

512.

Sodium nitrate looks and tastes like common salt

513.

Tingling of skin and tongue is seen in Aconite poisoning

514.
In phosphorous poisoning, avoid oil and fats as they increase
absorption
515.

In Endrin poisoning, the pupils are dilated

516.

Albumin helps to precipitate poison in Mercury poisoning

517.

Lead poisoning causes constipation

518.
In Potassium permanganate poisoning, lesions resemble Tertiary
syphilis
519.

Cocaine acts as an Aphrodisiac

520.
In treatment of Nux vomica poisoning, most important is I.V. injection
Barbiturates
521.

Pupils show alternate contraction and dilatation in Aconite poisoning

522.

Charcoal acts as a mechanical antidote.

523.
Delayed poisoning by oxalic acid is characterised by Uraemia Large
amount of water is contraindicated in Oxalic acid poisoning Hypocalcemia
can occur in Oxalic acid poisoning
524.

Coffee ground vomitus is seen in Oxalic acid poisoning

525.

Datura seeds look like- Brinjal seeds, capsicum seeds or Tomato seed

526.

Antidote for chlorpyriphos poisoning is. PAM.

527.

Prussian blue is used in poisoning by thallium.

528.

In gastric lavage, tube is passed upto 50 cm mark

529.

Oleander causes heart block

530.

Puppes rule is used for bullet injuries

531.

Wredins test detects changes in middle ear

532.

Rain drop pigmentation of skin is seen is arsenic poisoning

533.

Algor mortis refers to cooling of body

534.

American Law Institute Test is related to criminal responsibility

535.

Poroscopy was described by Locard

536.

Burrowed servant doctrine is related to vicarious liability

537.

Wax-drippings or bone pearls are due to thermal injuries

538.

Lichtenbergs flowers refers to Filigree burns

539.

Cutis anserina is due to exector pilae

540.

Cupping is a method of criminal abortion

541.

Crocodile flash burns are due to antemortem electric burns

542.
Hospital providing defective equipment or drugs is causing Corporate,
negligence Contusion collar is a proof of Gun shot entrance
543.

In Commando punch, injury usually occur in neck

544.
Blast lung is seen due to air explosion Thereapeutic orphans result due
to experimentation
545.
Thee name hatters shake is given because it is common in hat making
industry
546.

Trotter and Glessers formulae are used for estimating stature

547.

Rachiotomy saw is used to remove spinal cord

548.
In cases of increased intracranial pressure, Kernhans notch is seen on
midbrain
549.
In artificial insemination of Donor without husbands consent, if the
legal presumption of legitimacy be rebutted, parental rights will be vested in
mother only
550.

Agonal period is period between lethal occurrence and death

551.
K master is responsible for the faults of his servants is known as
Vicarious liability, Biliard ball ricochet effect is seen in firearm injuries
552.

Cavett test is used for determing blood alcohol

553.

Dactylography was first used in India by Sir W. Herschel

554.

Huffling is common solvent abuse

555.

Sewer gas contains CO2, methane and H25

556.

Stomach-bowel test is used for knowing if infant respiration occurred

557.

Swallow tails are seen in lacerated wound

558.

Most common type of abrasions of grazes

559.

Osteometric board is used to estimate stature

560.

Skull is square in Mongolians

561.
In human head hair, bar bodies are found in hair follicles in a
proportion of 29 5% in females and 6+2% males
562.
Curator bonis is person appointed to manage the affairs of mentally
incompetent

563.

Crib deaths are due to asphyxia

564.

Commoriants literally means dying together

565.

For identification, palatoprints are taken from anterior part

566.

Pink teeth are seen in death due to asphyxia

567.

The order of appearance of rigor mortis follows Nystens law

568.
Postmortem lividity in a case of hanging is most prominent over lower
extremities
569.
Postmortem staining of a dead body lying undisturbed persists till it
merges with discolouration of putrefaction
570.
Bleeding from nostrils, mouth and ears is relatively common in
strangulation
571.

Contre coup injury is seen in brain

572.

In deep incised wounds, Langers lines determine gaping

573.

Mugging by definition is homicidal

574.

Ligature mark in hanging is an example of imprint abrasion

575.

Immediate cause of death in burns is neurogenic shock

576.

Common cause of death in crush syndrome is acute renal failure

577.

Abrasion is seen in injury with rifled arm

578.

Spermin in semen is detected by Barberio test

579.

The impotent quoad is impotent to a particular woman

580.

Seminal fluid choline originates from Leydig cell

581.
To establish diagnosis of feigned insanity, the person can be observed
for a maximum period of 30 days
582.

Incessant sexual desire is known as satyriasis

583.

Dhatura poisoning is due to intake of seeds

584.

Mercury damages glomeruli and renal tubules

585.
Cyanide poisoning kit contains amyl nitrite, Sodium nitrite and sodium
thiosulfate

586.
Chromolachryorrhoea in organophosphorus poisoning is due to
porphyrin
587.

A green line in gums in copper poisoning is Clepten line

588.

In Eonism, there is cross dressing

589.

Garrotting is used as a method of execution in some countries

590.

Tardieu spots are numberous in thymus, AV junction and conjunctiva

591.

In body packer syndrome, person dies of abused drug overdose

592.

In drowning, emphysema aquosum is seen in 80% cases

593.
In embalming fluid, the concentration of formaldehyde and methyl
alcohol are 40% and 10% respectively
594.

Emmenagogues are used for criminal abortion

595.

McNaughten rule has been included in India in section 84 of IPC

596.

Hydrocution is another term for immersion syndrome

597.

Diminished responsibility is a term used for borderline mental state

598.

Minisatellite or stutters are terms used for DNA finger printing

599.

Section 312 IPC is related to abortion

600.

Sankya or somalkhar is a compound of lead

601.
The compounds used for taking finger prints are French chalk, lead
carbonate and mercury
602.

Central pocket loop is a variety of Composite finger print

603.

Reaction phenomenon is seen drowning

604.

Alcoholic palimpsests are a type of blackout

605.
Arsenic poisoning may lead to thrombocytopenia, leukemia and BM
suppression
606.
In arsenic poisoning, bands of opacity in finger nails are called AldrichMees lines
607.

Affiliation cases are related to paternity dispute

608.

Kennedy phenomenon results due to surgical alteration

609.
Incineration, dismembement and advanced putrefaction are methods
of effacement of identity
610.

Moletova cocktail is a bomb

611.

Medullary index is used to determine sex

612.

Harrison and Gilroy test is used for firearm injury

613.

After respiration, the weight of lungs increases by about 30 gm

614.
The most characteristic defence injuries are those sustained during an
attack by knife
615.

Ploucquets test is used to estimate live birth

616.

Weight of pineal gland is 0.1 to 0.2 gm

617.

In smothering, there is abrasion on the inner side of upper lip

618.

Death during anaesthesia, D.C. to be written by anaesthesist

619.
Privileged communication may be used by a doctor to blackmail his
patients
620.
Repeated intentional advertisement by a doctor in newspaper is
professional misconduct
621.

Oath taking in the court is court formality

622.

The inquiry into the circumstances of death is inquest report

623.
16 years age of female is an age to give valid consent for lawful sexual
intercourse
624.

Age of consent for medical examination is after eruption of III molar

625.

Fragmentary medulla is seen in Negroid

626.

For saliva, test used is alpha amylase test

627.

Rule of Haase is used for estimation of foetal age

628.

Wilsons classification is used to classify burns

629.

Drugs interfering in blood grouping are barbiturate, aspirin and heparin

630.

Phenol also retards putrefaction

631.

In strangulation, neck muscle rupture is common

632.
In fresh water poisoning, there may be hyperkalemia, hemolysis and
ventricular fibrillation
633.

Brain stem death occurs in encephalomyelitis

634.

Postmortem examination is done for all organ of the body

Historical milestones
Code of Hammurabioldest known medico-legal code.
Hippocrates (father of Medicine)
discussed lethality of wounds
formulated medical ethics.
Manu laws medical ethics many sexual matters most scientifically
discussed. Justinian code
regulated the practice of medicine & surgery.
established the function of the medical expert for legal procedure.
Bartolomeo De Varignana first medicolegal autopsy done by him in Italy.
Paulus Zacchias written medico-legal questions, questions Medico legalis.
Fortunato Fedelewritten first book on Forensic medicne.
Orfilconsidered as father of Modern Toxicology.
a. In the 18th century, study in legal Medicine as a subject was established by
appointing professorship in Germany.
b. In England Me Naughtens (who was aschizophrenic) rule has been established to
deal with legal matters in cases of insanity or like situations whatsoever
1.

Sec 118 IPCConcealing design to commit offence punishable with death or

improsonment for life.

2.

Sec 176, IPCOmission to give notice or information to public servant by

person legally bound to give it.

3.
4.

Sec 177 IPCFurnishing false information.

Sec 182 IPCFalse information with intent to cause public servant to use
lawful power to the injury of another person. .Sec 191 IPCGiving false
evidence

5.

Sec 192 IPCFabricating false evidence.

6.

Sec 193 IPCPunishment for false evidence.

7.

Sec 194 IPCGiving or fabricating false evidence with intent to procure

conviction of capital offence.

8.
9.

Sec 195 IPC Giving or fabricating false evidence with intent to procure
conviction of offence punishable with imprisonment for life or imprisonment.
Sec 197 IPCIssuing or signing false certificates.

10. Sec 201 IPCCausing disappearance of evidence of offence, or giving false

information to screen offenders.
11. Sec 203 IPCGiving false information respecting an offence committed.
12. Sec 204 IPCDestruction of document to prevent its production as evidence.
13. Sec 284 IPC Negligent conduct with respect to poisonous substances.
14. Sec 304 IPCCausing death by negligence.
15. Sec 309 IPCAttempt to commit suicide
16. Sec 313 IPCCausing miscarriage without womans consent.
17. Sec 318 IPCConcealment of birth by secret disposal of dead body.
18. Sec 319 IPCHurt.
19. Sec 320 IPCGrievous hurt.
20. Sec 351 IPCAssault.
21. Sec 362 IPCAbduction.
22. Sec 375 IPC Rape.
23. Sec 376 IPCPunishment for rape.
24. Sec 377 IPCUnnatural offences.
25. Sec 497 IPCAdultery.
26. Sec 39 Cr. P.CEvery person, aware of the commission of or of the intention
of any other person to commit any offence is punishable under I.P.C. shall
forthwith give information to the nearest magistrate of police officer of such
commission or intention.
27. Sec 84 IPCNothing is an offence which is done by a person who at the time
of doing it, by reason of unsoundness of mind, is incapable of knowing the
nature of the act or what he is doing is either wrong or contrary to law.
28. ConfabulationPathological loss of memory, e.g. Korsakoff s psychosis.
Early stages of dementia.