Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Forensic Medicine Toxicology

Throughout the world deaths due to firearm weapons have increased dramatically. It was observed as a major cause of trauma worldwide. This made firearm investigation of medico-legal importance that would help in reaching criminal justice. One hundred and fifty-seven (157) cases of both sexes and different age groups, with firearm injury being the main cause of death presented to Zeinhom morgue (1st September 2015 - end of February 2016) were included in cross-sectional antrospective study in relation to demographic data and the results of forensic examination. Statistical significant difference found in the comparison between: type of weapon (rifled and non-rifled) and presence of retained particle, weapon type and the inlet diameter, anatomical region of firearm wound and presence of exit wound in rifled weapon, type of causal weapon and the complications following firearm injury before death, and caliber of rifled weapon and presence of retained particle. Retention of firearm particle is affected by the type and caliper of weapon in addition to the anatomical region of injury. As well, the type of firearm weapon can affect the inlet diameter and the associated complication to the firearm injury. There is a need to ensure prober limitation of ownership of firearms, in addition accurate documentation of firearm wounds. The attendance of a forensic pathologist at the crime scene to ensure proper management of firearm cases and samples at the scene

Issued also as CD