Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
The Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology (JFMT) is a peer-reviewed, hybrid, Quaterly journal with a broad international perspective. The journal is dedicated to all branches of Forensic Medicine, Legal Medicine, Toxicology and allied sciences for the administration of justice. Specifically, the Journal encourages research articles that explore principles of forensic practice in contact with judicial system, practice of toxicology; and articles related to medical litigation, medical law and medico-legal issues arising out of day-to-day practice. The journal is an official publication of Medicolegal Society (regd.). The journal was initiated in year 1984 and passing through 42nd year of its publication in 2025. The Journal promotes collaborative research among forensic experts, research scholars, scientists, the occupation health hazard industry and healthcare professionals. The journal accepts submissions of original research, editorials, review articles, case series, case reports, systematic reviews and book reviews in relevant areas. INDEXING It has been assigned International standard serial No. print-0971-1929 and electronic-0974-4568. The Journal is indexed / covered with Scopus, Embase, Embase Excerpta, CNKI scholar, Google Scholar, EBSCO discovery and Indian citation index. https://www.scopus.com/sourceid/27767
Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology
Future Perspectives of Super Speciality Courses in Forensic Medicine & Toxicology in India – A way Forward
Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (FMT) in India is undergoing a paradigm shift, with growing recognition of the need for super-speciality training to address the rising complexity of medico-legal challenges. Advances in Forensic Toxicology, Forensic Pathology, Forensic Radiology, Molecular Diagnostics, and Toxico-genomics, alongside judicial demand for precise scientific evidence, highlight the limitations of existing postgraduate curricula. This editorial article explores the future perspectives of super-speciality courses in FMT in India, examining the need, driving factors, chal \lenges, local and global opportunities. Current developments in premier institutions, including AIIMS and the National Forensic Sciences University, are paving the way for structured super-speciality training, though gaps in infrastructure, faculty expertise, and regulatory frameworks persist. International benchmarks demonstrate the potential for integrat ing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital Forensics into medico-legal practices. Initiation of super-speciality programs may further add value to the subject, strengthen its scope and recognise position of India as a global leader in Forensic field. The future of super specialty courses in Forensic Medicine in India looks promising, with several developments indicating growth and recognition of the field.
Understanding Suicidal Death Patterns in Northeastern India: Demographic Predictors, State Level Influences, Emerging Self-Infliction Methods, and Policy Recommendations
ObjectiveThis study examines suicide patterns in the Northeastern states of India, often referred to as the Seven Sisters. The aim is to assess whether demographic factors such as gender, marital status, and income group can explain suicide trends, and to explore broader systemic influences. The findings are intended to support forensic medicine professionals, policymakers, and public health authorities in their work.MethodPanel data from the National Crime Records Bureau (2014–2022) were analyzed using a Linear Mixed Model (LMM). This method evaluates both the direct role of demographic variables and the hidden, state-specific influences that may affect suicide rates, such as culture, economy, policies, and social conditions.FindingsThe analysis reveals that demographic factors alone (male/female, married/unmarried, rich/ poor) are not strong predictors of suicide rates. Instead, large-scale, state-level conditions play a more decisive role. Each state shows unique patterns shaped by its own social and systemic environment.ConclusionThese findings emphasize the importance of considering state-specific factors in forensic investigations of suicide. Forensic pathologists and medico legal experts may benefit from this perspective when conducting psychological autopsies, interpreting case patterns, and providing expert opinions. The study also underlines the need for region-specific suicide prevention strategies that can inform both forensic practice and public health policy.
Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) for Brought Dead Cases in India- A legal perspective.
The Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) is a critical document serving legal, statistical, and public health purposes by recording the medically certified cause of death. However, certifying deaths becomes particularly challeng ing when individuals are “brought in dead” (BID) or declared “dead on arrival” (DOA) at hospitals. In such cases, the absence of prior medical history and unclear circumstances make it inappropriate for primary practitioners to issue MCCD without further evaluation. Certifying such deaths carries legal and ethical implications, especially in suspected unnatural deaths, where police inquests and post-mortem examinations under BNSS Section 194 are required. As per the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 [Section 10(2) & (3)], only registered medical practitioners who attended the patient during terminal illness are authorized to issue death certificates. As per National Medical Commission guide lines (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics Regulations, 2002) personal examination of the body before certifi cation is mandatory. Despite its importance, MCCD coverage and quality in India remain inadequate, averaging only 20%. Common deficiencies include incomplete, incorrect, or illegible entries. Strengthening hospital protocols, involving forensic experts, and providing regular training to medical staff are essential tools to improve accuracy. Additionally, establishing audit committees to review MCCD documentation can enhance accountability. Improving awareness and adherence to existing guidelines will enable MCCD to function more effectively as a tool for justice, health surveillance, and public policy.
Acute Lung Injury in Fatal Paraquat Poisoning: A Case Report
Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide associated with significant morbidity and mortality following ingestion, primarily due to its profound pulmonary toxicity. Acute lung injury (ALI) and progressive pulmonary fibrosis represent the hall mark pathological features, often leading to respiratory failure and death. We report a case of fatal paraquat poisoning in a young adult who presented with gastrointestinal symptoms and rapidly deteriorated despite supportive management. Laboratory investigations revealed multi-organ involvement, and imaging demonstrated diffuse pulmonary infiltrates consistent with ALI. Despite intensive care, the patient developed severe hypoxemia and succumbed within days of ingestion. This case underscores the challenges in managing paraquat poisoning, as no specific antidote exists and therapeutic strategies remain largely supportive. Early recognition, aggressive decontamination, and novel treatment modalities may improve outcomes; however, prognosis remains poor in cases with significant exposure. Clinicians must maintain high suspicion and counsel regarding the lethal potential of paraquat ingestion.
Copyright (c) 2025 Prashant Ratadiya, Avinash Chouhan, Utsav Parekh, Sanjay Gupta, Yash Thesiya, Garima Anandani (Author)
Unveiling Invisible Clues: The Evolving Landscape of Clinical Microbiology in Forensic and Toxicological Studies
The integration of clinical microbiology into forensic medicine and toxicology has revolutionized investigative method ologies, enhancing the precision of criminal investigations. This review examines the role and impact of clinical micro biology in forensic contexts, focusing on its applications, technological advancements, challenges, ethical considerations, and future prospects. Forensic microbiology has proven invaluable in various forensic investigations, such as identifying pathogens in unex pected deaths, analysing soil microbiomes to infer crime scene geolocations, and utilizing the human microbiome for individual identification. Advances in next-generation sequencing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning have significantly enhanced the capabilities of forensic microbiology, enabling faster and more precise analyses. These tech nologies facilitate a deeper understanding of microbial evidence, contributing to more accurate forensic conclusions. However, the field faces challenges, including the need for standardized methodologies and protocols, rapid pathogen identification, and handling complex microbial ecosystems. Ethical considerations, particularly regarding the privacy of microbiome data and its legal interpretation, are also pivotal. Future research directions emphasize developing rapid on-site testing methods, expanding microbial databases, and establishing robust ethical frameworks for microbiology’s use in forensic science. These advancements are anticipated to further refine forensic microbiological methods, ensuring their responsible and effective application in legal investiga tions. In summary, the integration of clinical microbiology into forensic medicine and toxicology marks a significant ad vancement in forensic science. It offers enhanced capabilities in crime scene analysis and pathogen identification, while posing challenges that require careful consideration and ongoing research. The continued evolution of this field prom ises to significantly contribute to the efficacy and integrity of forensic investigations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abhishek Padhi, Utsav Parekh, Ashwini Agarwal, Sanjay Gupta (Author)
Towards Standardizing Medicolegal Practices In India: Challenges and Solutions
In India, Medicolegal cases require meticulous examination and evidence collection to support legal investigations, yet the absence of a standardized national medicolegal code leads to inconsistent practices. Currently, only a few states and institutions have developed their own codes, leaving many healthcare facilities, particularly in resource-limited settings, reliant on outdated or ad-hoc protocols. This variability complicates workflows, especially for junior consultants, medical graduates working in district hospitals performing medicolegal duties and foreign-trained medical graduates unfamiliar with Indian procedures, risking suboptimal evidence collection and documentation. A national medicolegal code is proposed to standardize protocols for examination, sample preservation, and stakeholder responsibilities, ensuring unifor mity and clarity. Such a code would align with updated criminal laws, address logistical challenges like evidence storage, and incorporate guidelines for diverse medicolegal scenarios, including sexual violence, autopsies, and disaster victim identification. Despite challenges in enforceability due to state jurisdiction over law and order, voluntary adoption by states, endorsed by the Union government, could streamline practices, ultimately improving medicolegal service quality and aiding the justice delivery system across India. This review article discusses several practical difficulties in medicole gal practice, challenges in creating a national medicolegal code, and proposes recommendations to move forward.
National Medicolegal Code and Manual (MLMC)
Copyright (c) 2025 Benjy Tom Varughese, Ranjit Immanuel James, Latif Rajesh Johnson, Silvano Dias Sapeco, Jagadeesh Narayanared dy, Adarsh Kumar, Sanjay Gupta, Mukesh Yadav (Author)
Behind the flames: a retrospective study of burn injury cases in a tertiary care centre, Nizamabad
Background: Burns are a global public health problem, accounting for an estimated 180,000 deaths annually.1 The majority of these occur in low- and middle-income countries and almost two thirds occur in the WHO African and South-East Asia Regions. Non-fatal burns are a leading cause of morbidity, including prolonged hospitalization, disfigurement and disability, often with resulting stigma and rejection. According to the Na tional Burns Programme, 91,000 of these deaths are women; a figure higher than that for maternal mortality. Women of child bearing age are on average three times more likely than men to die of burn injuries. Females have slightly higher rates of death from burns compared to males. This contrasts with the usual injury pat tern, where rates of injury for the various injury mechanisms tend to be higher in males than females.2 Along with adult women, children are particularly vulnerable to burns. Burns are the fifth most common cause of non-fatal childhood injuries.3 Methods: Retrospective study involving 53 cases of burn injuries were included in this study over a period of 3 years. Results: Out of 53 cases, 37 individuals were females depicting female preponderance.
Copyright (c) 2025 R Sudha, M Niharika, B V Naga Mohan Rao, Azmath Tabassum, Jithin Laxminarayana V, Kapil D (Author)
Effective and Professional Handling of Medico Legal Cases in a Busy Tertiary Care Hospital Emergency Medicine Department and Solutions to Address Challenges
Medico-legal cases (MLCs) form a critical part of emergency medicine practice, requiring meticulous documentation, legal compliance, and seamless coordination between healthcare providers and law enforcement agencies. Handling medico legal cases in the Emergency Medicine department of a busy tertiary care hospital is associated with lot of chal lenges that can affect the quality of patient care and the integrity and quality of legal processes. This article examines the key aspects of effective and professional MLC management, highlighting best practices for accurate documentation, ethi cal considerations, and timely legal reporting. Common challenges, such as inadequate staff training, lack of standardized protocols, and communication gaps, are discussed. Practical solutions, including staff training, digital documentation, and streamlined communication strategies, are proposed to enhance medico-legal case handling. By implementing these strategies, emergency departments can optimize medico-legal case handling, ensuring legal integrity, patient rights pro tection, and improved emergency care services. This article serves as a guide for healthcare professionals to handle MLC complexities with confidence and professionalism.
An Autopsy-Based Study for Estimation of Stature From Anthropometry of Percutaneous Length of Femur in Male Population of Central India Region (M.P.)
Estimation of stature holds a special attention in the field of forensic medicine & forensic anthropology. Among the various parameters of identification, individual’s stature is an inherent characteristic. It becomes very difficult to predict the physical identity of an individual when only mutilated and dismembered remains of dead body are brought for post mortem examination. The aim of the present study was to find the correlation between anthropometry of percutaneous length of femur and stature in males and to derive a regression equation formula and multiplication factor to estimate the stature from percutaneous length of femur anthropometry in the Central India region Madhya Pradesh. This cross-sectional study was carried out on 250 deceased males of age between 20-60 years, brought for postmortem examination to the mortuary of Forensic Medicine Department, M.G.M. Medical College and M.Y. Hospital, Indore (M.P.). The mean right and left percutaneous femoral length found 39.73 ± 1.613 and 39.74 ± 1.606 cm respectively, whereas the mean stature was found to be 165.83 ± 7.98 cm. In this study, the maximum stature in males was found to be 185.0 cm and the minimum stature was found to be 150.0 cm. The correlation between percutaneous femoral length and stature was found to be positively correlated and the association was highly significant. The multiplication factor for percutaneous femoral length was found to be 4.17. Multiplication factors become essential in cases of forensic analysis when only limb or fragmented body part with soft tissue is available for analysis
The effect of Chamomile Tea on Oral Mucositis among patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Randomized Control Trail
Background: The side effect oral mucositis from chemotherapy harms patients who receive high-dose treatment because it affects 9 out of 10 individuals. The current oral medication palifermin needs extra funding to treat patients especially in less developed healthcare settings.Aim of study: This study aimed to test if chamomile tea can lower the harm oral mucositis causes from chemotherapy.Material and Method: Babylon oncology center in Iraq ran an official experiment with 75 patients split into two groups during medicinal studies. Card method was used to assign patients randomly into different groups. During two weeks’ participants in the chamomile group needed to apply chamomile tea rinses to their mouths three times a day but only standard medical care applied to the control group. WHO Mucositis Scale was used to measure oral mucositis severity in patients both at the start, day 7, and day 14.Results: The chamomile treatment sig nificantly reduced oral mucositis pain for patients but worsened symptoms for control patients (p < 0.001). Out of the 20 participants, 75% had no more mucositis by day 14. oral mucositis severity related closely to cancer stage, length of che motherapy treatment and patient oral hygiene practices as tested with p values under 0.05. Standard oral care protocols for chemotherapy patients should include chamomile tea integration particularly in resource-limited healthcare facilities because it effectively decreases OM severity
Karnataka’s Bold Step to Classify Sudden Deaths as Notifiable: A National Imperative in the setting benchmark.
In a significant public health development, the Karnataka government has proposed making sudden out-of-hospital deaths, particularly in individuals under 45, a notifiable condition. This initiative, driven by expert committee recom mendations, also mandates autopsies in such cases and the creation of a centralized registry. By aligning with interna tional best practices and emphasizing data-driven strategies, this model addresses India’s long-standing gaps in mortality surveillance. While ethical and logistical challenges persist, Karnataka’s policy can serve as a national blueprint for reforming death investigation and improving cardiovascular health outcomes
Autopsy Analysis of Renal Lesions: A Histomorphological Perspective
Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the histomorphological spectrum of renal lesions in autopsy cases to determine the prevalence and distribution of renal pathologies among individuals who died suddenly and unexpectedly. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted over one year in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology at Government Medical College, Amritsar. A total of 160 autopsy cases were included, excluding those with autolyzed kidneys. Detailed gross and histopathological examinations were performed on all kidney samples, with additional PAS staining employed as necessary. Data on age, sex, and circumstances of death were recorded, and findings were statistically analysed using SPSS software. Results: Among the 160 cases, 70.3% exhibited histopathological abnormalities. Acute pyelonephritis was the most common lesion (24.975%), followed by acute tubular necrosis (14.85%). Glomerular sclerosis was observed in 11.25% of cases, and renal cell carcinoma in 2.7%. A male predominance was noted, with the highest frequency of renal pathologies in the 41-60 years age group. Gross examination revealed congestion in 61.25% of kidneys and cystic changes in 36.45%. Conclusion: The study underscores the significant incidence of renal pathologies, many of which remain undiagnosed during life, particularly among middle-aged males. The findings emphasize the critical role of autopsy in detecting occult renal conditions, offering insights that could improve the management and prevention of renal diseases.
Technology Enhanced Learning in Forensic Medicine: Reforms for the Digital Age
Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL) is redefining the landscape of medical education, and its integration into Forensic Medicine marks a significant advancement in how future professionals are trained. This article explores the transforma tive impact of TEL tools on the teaching and learning of Forensic concepts. Challenges, demerits and future directions are also discussed. By embracing TEL, forensic education becomes more accessible, interactive, and effective, ultimately preparing learners to meet the evolving challenges of medico-legal practice in a digital age.
Predicting Acute Myocardial Infarction in Patients with Critical Coronary Artery Narrowing: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Background: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains a global health burden. Early identification of individuals at high risk, particularly those with ≥70% coronary artery stenosis, can facilitate preventive strategies. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the risk of AMI among patients with critical coronary artery narrowing. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library was conducted for stud ies published from January 2000 to December 2023. Eligible studies included adults (≥18 years) with angiographically confirmed ≥70% stenosis in at least one major coronary artery and reported AMI incidence. Data were extracted and pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and risk of bias was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane RoB tool. PROSPERO Registration: CRD420251075342. Results: Eighteen studies (n=22,456 participants) were included. The pooled relative risk (RR) of developing AMI in patients with ≥70% stenosis was 3.45 (95% CI: 2.88–4.13), with moderate heterogeneity (I² = 48%). Subgroup analysis showed higher risk among patients with multi-vessel disease and diabetics. Funnel plot and Egger’s test (p=0.22) showed no significant publication bias. Conclusion: Patients with critical coronary stenosis are at substantially elevated risk for subsequent AMI. These findings emphasize the need for vigilant monitoring, risk stratification, and aggressive therapeutic in terventions in this high-risk cohort. Future studies should focus on novel biomarkers and predictive models to enhance early detection.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nani Gopal Das, Amitava Baidya, Abhik Sil, Nirmalendu Das, Satabdi Saha (Author)
Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) in Forensic Learning: Usefulness, Disadvantages, Challenges, and Implementation Process
Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) is an integral tool for workplace-based assessment (WBA) in forensic learning, providing real-time evaluation and feedback on students’ procedural competencies. This article delves into the usefulness, disadvantages, challenges, and implementation process of DOPS within forensic education. It includes practical examples to illustrate the impact of DOPS on enhancing the assessment process and preparing students for professional practice.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pragnesh Parmar, Utsav Parekh, Sanjay Gupta (Author)
As scientific knowledge expands and technology advances, certain traditional practices in toxicology have become obso lete in the current era. This article delves into some of these outdated approaches, highlighting the need for their replace ment with more modern and sophisticated methods. The article highlights the importance of toxicology as a discipline, the current scenario and practice and why we need to bring change in study material taught to undergraduate and post graduate students. The topics which are still taught and are of no relevance in the present time need to be removed and the common treatment and testing methods which could be useful in clinical practice should be given importance. By shedding outdated practices, toxicology in the current era aims to provide more accurate, reliable, and applicable insights into the potential risks posed by various chemicals on human health and the environment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mukul Sharma, Sanjay Gupta, Utsav Parekh, Pragnesh Parmar (Author)
Assessing Sexual Dimorphism of the Sternum: A Forensic Evaluation of the Sternal Index and Hyrtl’s Law
Background: Sex estimation plays a critical role in forensic investigations, particularly in cases involving incomplete skeletal remains. While the pelvis and skull are the most sexually dimorphic bones, alternative markers such as the ster num are gaining attention. This study investigates the utility of sternal measurements and the sternal index in determin ing sex and evaluates the applicability of Hyrtl’s Law in forensic contexts. Materials and Methods: A total of 132 cadavers (92 males, 40 females) were examined for sternal morphometry. Parameters measured included total sternal length, manubrium length, and mesosternum length. The sternal index was calculated and analyzed for sexual dimorphism. Additionally, the applicability of Hyrtl’s Law—stating that the manu brium is shorter than the mesosternum—was assessed in both sexes. Results: Males exhibited significantly greater sternal lengths compared to females. The mean sternal index was signifi cantly higher in females, indicating a potential marker for sexual dimorphism. However, notable overlap in sternal index values was observed—98.9% in males and 90% in females—limiting its reliability as a standalone indicator. Hyrtl’s Law was applicable in 71.73% of male cadavers but only in 40% of female cadavers, suggesting limited utility in female sex estimation. Conclusion: The sternum demonstrates measurable sexual dimorphism and may aid in sex estimation when key skeletal elements are unavailable. Although the sternal index and Hyrtl’s Law show potential, their application is constrained by significant overlap between sexes. Further research with larger and more diverse populations is recommended to enhance their forensic reliability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nilesh K Tumram, Soniya Bhaurao Parchake, Vina Vaswani (Author)
Filicide: A Case Series Study of eight cases on Medicolegal Profile and Circumstances
Background: Filicide, the murder of a child by a parent is a complex phenomenon. It has various characteristics and causes. Even though rare, the outcome of filicide is more pronounced and long lasting compared to other types of murders. Maternal and paternal filicides are deaths of children when the killer/perpetrator is the mother and father of the victim. Material and Methods: This article presents 8 cases of filicide where the parents killed the children. These cases were studied from the postmortem records during the past five years, i.e., from 2020-2024. Results: Most of the cases were maternal filicides. The age of the victims ranged from newborns to adolescents. Mothers usually prefer soft methods of homicide whereas fathers prefer hard methods of homicide. Conclusion: A better understanding and knowledge of potentially fatal paternal/ familial dynamics, methods espoused for filicide could facilitate the identification of risk and enable effective intervention strategies. This case series highlights pattern of filicides in Kadapa region in order to enlighten the health professionals, clinicians and the general population about the importance of early identification of possible risk factors and filicidal tendencies.
Copyright (c) 2025 M Abdul Khalid, S Sudhakar, K Jyothi Prasad, G Dinesh (Author)
A Comparative autopsy-based study of presence of fluid in paranasal sinuses in deaths due to drowning and other asphyxial deaths in North Kerala
Background: Drowning is regarded as the primary cause of fatalities in aquatic environments and the third most prevalent form of accidental death globally, with the largest incidence rates occurring in underdeveloped nations. Accurate forensic diagnosis of drowning poses a problem because of the generic characteristics of post-mortem findings derived from traditional autopsy techniques. This study examines the importance of fluid in the paranasal sinuses in drowning incidents and aims to differentiate drowning from non-drowning instances. Methods: This was an observational descriptive comparative study done in fifty cases of drowning fatalities and fifty cases of other asphyxial fatalities who underwent medicolegal autopsy at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Government Medical College, Kannur. The paranasal sinuses were inspected for fluid during the medicolegal autopsy. Results: The study group consisted primarily of males (62.7%) with an average age of 46.90±16.34 years. Nearly half of them were in their fourth and fifth decades of life. In this study, 46 (92%) of the 50 drowning cases exhibited fluid in the paranasal sinuses (frontal, maxillary and sphenoid sinuses). None of the 50 instanc es of other asphyxial deaths showed fluid in the paranasal sinuses. The findings endorse the efficacy of para nasal sinus fluid analysis as a significant diagnostic tool in instances where drowning is suspected yet cannot be conclusively verified by conventional methods. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the presence of fluid in the paranasal sinuses serves as a diagnostic indi cator of drowning-related death, corroborating other research. The physiological comprehension of fluid accumu lation in the paranasal sinuses of drowning victims and its forensic ramifications illustrate the importance of this diagnostic technique in medico-legal enquiries. The detection of fluid in these sinuses offers insights into the phys iopathology of drowning and serves as a crucial instrument for distinguishing between drowning and non-drown ing incidents, thus facilitating the precise identification of the cause of death and assisting in criminal enquiries.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sreekanth S Nair, Nikhil Lakshmanan (Author)
Clinical and autopsy findings in Paraquat poisoning: A two year retrospective study
Paraquat (PQ) is a highly toxic herbicide which causes cellular damage by production of superoxide radicals or other reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrite radicals. Agricultural health hazards of PQ are seen among the handlers due to its direct effect. However, most fatal toxicity is seen following ingestion; which is mostly done for self-harm. The target organ of PQ toxicity is lungs and kidney causing very rapid death following extensive pulmonary fibrosis and kidney damage. It also causes local effect on oral cavity by extensive erosion of oral mucosa and tongue. There is no specific treatment due to lack of antidot. In our study, we have seen 57 cases of PQ poisoning brought to our tertiary care centre in southern part of India. Out of these cases, 21 pa tients were brought directly by family members and remaining were referred from outside. All of the patients received conservative treatment and there was good clinical outcome with 15 deaths. Autopsy was conducted in all deaths in our mortuary. The autopsy findings also highlighted extensive pulmonary damage in all cases.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bedanta Sarma, Shreemanta Kumar Dash, Rishikesh G (Author)
Exploring the Effect of Disruptive Behavioral Disorders on Quality of Learning Among School Children: Across-sectional Study
Background: disruptive behavioral disorders among primary school children is oone of the most popular, which has negative social, psychological, educational, and physical repercussions on children and families. Objective: This study sought to determine effect disruptive behavioral disorders quality of learning among school chil dren. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design study was conducted at Baquba primary schools in Diyala Governorate, and the study period was extended from October 6th, 2024, to January 15th, 2025. A nonprobability purposive sample was used to include 275 teachers working at selected Baquba primary schools, Iraq. Data were collected using a self-admin istered questionnaire, two components of the study instruments. Initially, the demographic sheet contained the individ uals’ sociodemographic data. An explicit children’s emotional and behavioral problems scale is included in the second section. The collected data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Results: The results showed that areas were within a moderate disruptive behavior level for: aggression, hyperactiv ity, and learning problems, and area was within a low disruptive behavior level for Physical problems. The average scores for these areas are 2.05, 2.39, 2.30, 1.52 respectively and total average scores for these areas is (2.16). The findings demonstrated a robust and positive association between the age group and disruptive behavior disorders among primary schools’ children. However, the statistical analysis indicated that there was significant correlation between sociodemo graphic factors and DBD regarding of gender. Conclusion: In summary, students with disruptive behavioral disorders have lower academic achievement and gradu ation rates than students without disabilities. The majority of the children polled in this study reported moderate levels of DBD.
Journey of Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology and way forwards
Dear Readers and Friends,I am deeply saddened by the sudden demise of Prof.O.P. Murty, a stalwart in the Forensic fraternity. His contributions to the field and JFMT are immeasurable, and his legacy will be remembered forever.As a token of respect, we have proposed an award in his name to the Indian Academy of Forensic Medicine (IAFM) to recognize his tireless efforts and academic contributions. In 2022, the Journal of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (JFMT) was facing many turbulences in its existence. I was entrusted with the responsibility of reviving it, and I, along with my team, worked tirelessly to restore its reputation. Our efforts paid off at a significant personal and professional cost. We incurred monetary losses, sacrificed opportunities, and devoted countless hours to develop the domain and coping with immense stress.Today, JFMT stands as one of the premier national journals in Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, a testament to our unwavering dedication and hard work.As I complete the tenure of three years as Editor, I acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our team.
Anthropometric Correlation of Hand Length with Height in adults aged 20-23 years and Derivation of Regression Formulae for Height Estimation – A Cross-Sectional Study in Raebareli
Background: Identification plays a crucial role in forensic and medico-legal investigations. In situations where only body fragments such as hands or feet are available, height estimation becomes challenging. While previous studies have explored stature estimation using long bones, limited research has focused on hand length, particularly in non-Caucasian populations. This study aims to establish the correlation between hand length and height and derive regression equations for stature estimation in the Raebareli population. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary health care centre, involving 200 adult participants (100 males, 100 females) aged 20 to 23 years. Hand length and height were measured following standardized anthropometric protocols. Statistical analyses, including Pearson’s correlation and linear regression, were performed using Jamovi version 2.6.44. Results and discussion: The findings revealed a strong positive correlation between hand length and height for both sexes, with all correlations being statistically significant (p < 0.001). For males, the correlation coefficients for left- and right-hand length were r = 0.619 and r = 0.612, respectively. For females, these values were slightly higher at r = 0.627 and r = 0.640, respectively. Linear regression equations were derived separately for males and females, showing that hand length serves as a reliable predictor of height. Conclusion: This study confirms that hand length exhibits a strong and significant correlation with height in both males and females. The regression models developed provide an effective method for stature estimation, partic ularly in forensic cases where only hand fragments are available. These findings are especially relevant for the population of Raebareli and similar ethnic groups, offering valuable anthropometric and forensic applications
Copyright (c) 2025 Aditya Anand, Mukul Sharma, Vikash Chandra, Mukesh Shukla, Abhay Singh (Author)
Cephalic Index among medical students of Tripura studying in Tripura Medical College
The cephalic index is a crucial anthropometric measurement used to classify head shapes and assess race in various pop ulations. It has broad applications in forensic anthropology, clinical craniofacial analysis, and anthropological research. This study aimed to determine the mean cephalic index among undergraduate medical students of Tripura Medical College who are permanent residents of Tripura, and to analyse differences based on gender and ethnicity. A total of 323 students participated, including 175 females and 148 males. Standard anthropometric tools were used to measure skull length and breadth, and the cephalic index was calculated as the ratio of maximum cranial breadth to maximum cranial length multiplied by 100. The mean cephalic index observed was 80.87 ± 3.49, indicating a predominance of the brachycephalic type (65%), followed by Mesocephalic (30%) and dolichocephalic (5%) skulls. Although females showed a slightly higher mean cephalic index (81.05 ± 3.48) compared to males (80.65 ± 3.50), the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.315). However, a significant difference was found between ethnic groups, with non-Bengali students showing a higher mean cephalic index (81.75 ± 2.85) compared to Bengali students (80.44 ± 3.70) (p = 0.001). These results suggest that ethnicity plays a notable role in cranial morphology, whereas gender does not significantly influence cephalic index. The findings provide valuable regional data for forensic and clinical applications and contribute to the anthropometric profiling of populations in Northeast India.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nani Gopal Das, Nirmalya Saha, Nirmalendu Das, Kaushik Tripura (Author)
A cross-sectional study on knowledge, attitude & practice towards organ & tissue donation among patient’s attendant in tertiary care hospital.
Background: Organ transplantation is one of the life-saving treatment needed for survival but the disparity in the number of recipients and donors are expansive & unequivocal. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude & prac tice of organ & tissue donation among patient’s attendant in a tertiary care hospital. Material & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among patient’s attendant in tertiary care hospital. The interview was carried out vis-à-vis using a 25 structured questionnaire and analysed using SPSS (IBM version 20, Armonk, NY, USA) Results: 100 consenting patient’s attendants were interviewed in the median age of 21-30years (43%) with a male: female sex ratio of 1:1.6. Majority of the interviewees were aware of organ transplantation however 52% did not know about donor registry. It was also observed that 37% didn’t know about cadaveric organ donation & 76% were willing to donate organs after death. Majority (87%) of the participants think that donating one’s organ adds meaning to one’s life yet 66% had not pledged/signed for donating organs. It is also detected that 49% of unwillingness for organ donation is due to unaware ness while 21% had their reservation due to organ mutilation. This study also reflected that 59% were of the believe that organ donation will affect their lifestyle. Conclusion: At the end of the study, it is observed that majority of them had the knowledge on organ donation but were unaware of its process for registering as organ donor.
Copyright (c) 2025 Karma Mingur Diki Bhutia, Serug Rai, Wangzin Dorjee Bhutia, Siddharth Kumar (Author)
Haemorrhage in Middle Ear and Mastoid Air Cells (Temporal bone) in Drowning cases- an Autopsy based Cross-sectional study
Drowning is a form of asphyxia due to aspiration of fluid into air-passages, caused by submersion in water or other fluid. Complete submersion is not necessary, for submer sion of the nose and mouth alone for a sufficient period can cause death from drowning.1 Hemorrhage in the middle ear (barotrauma) is a recognized result of drowning. The middle ear is a narrow air-filled space in the petrous part of the temporal bone between the external ear and the as seen in 65% of cases, out of which it was bilateral in 27% of cases, only right side in 22% of cases, and only left side in 16% of cases. Hemorrhage in mastoid air cells was seen in 57% of cases, out of which it was bilateral in 14% of cases, only the right side in 22% of cases, and only the left side in 21% of cases. Middle ear hemorrhage in drowning cases aids forensic pathologists in determining cause of death, distinguishing drowning from other causes and providing insights into water asphyxiation mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2025 B U Suthar, Shiwangi Bhushan, S G Momin, D S Patel (Author)
EXPLORING THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND BELIEF OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS REGARDING SUBSTANCE MISUSE
This study explores university students' knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding substance misuse, aiming to identify factors that influence drug use behaviors among youth.
Altmetrics – beyond the bibliometrics: a new tool for online attention to the publication
Altmetrics are alternative ways of measuring the reach and impact of research via digital interactions. Unlike traditional citations, they capture real-time engagement across blogs, social media, and online news.
Copyright (c) 2025 Utsav Parekh and Sanjay Gupta
BOTANICAL ELIXIRS: A RARE CASE OF SUICIDAL POISONING WITH A FLOWER STIMULANT
Nitrobenzene-based flowering stimulants are rare causes of fatal poisoning. This case highlights acute methemoglobinemia due to ingestion of a stimulant, describing clinical, autopsy, and toxicological findings.
Copyright (c) 2025 Siddhartha Das et al.
USE OF HUMAN CORD BLOOD AS DNA EVIDENCE IN PATERNITY DISPUTES: A CASE STUDY
This study explores the use of umbilical cord blood for DNA profiling in paternity disputes, offering a practical alternative to traditional fetal or neonatal blood sampling with higher yield and no maternal contamination.