INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)  
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025  
Morphological Spectrum of Wound Types of Forensic Interest Found  
on the Human Body in Aba, Southeastern Nigeria: 2014-2023  
Retrospective Analysis  
*Offiah, Awa U1, Eleweke Ndukauba2, Igwe Franklin E1, Offiah, Emmanuella A3 ,Ede A.O.4  
1Department of Anatomic/Forensic Pathology, Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH),  
Aba, Nigeria.  
2Dept.of Surgery, Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), Aba, Nigeria.  
3Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gregory University, Uturu.  
4Environmental Health Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nnewi Camps, Nnamdi Azikiwe University,  
Awka, Nigeria  
*Corresponding Author  
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.12110047  
Received: 21 November 2025; Accepted: 28 November 2025; Published: 05 November 2025  
ABSTRACT  
In the course of death, injuries of the body are often associated with a wide range of potentially life-threatening  
assaults. In all physical assaults, whether it result in death or not, the assailant has produced and left different  
types of marks on the victim’s body. The morphologies of these marks help reconstruct the cause of death. This  
study investigates and categorizes the morphologies and different types of marks left on a victim’s body in the  
course of death in Aba, Southeastern Nigeria, highlighting their significance in forensic investigations, which  
could serve as a veritable tool in reconstructing the crime scene and determining the cause of death. A  
retrospective analysis was conducted on autopsy reports and medical records from January 2014 to December  
2023, focusing on cases with documented wound types found on the victim’s body that provide salient and useful  
data for the forensic crime investigator. The study categorized wounds into types such as sharp force, blunt force,  
gunshot, and thermal injuries, etc. Examining their frequency, demographic data, and potential implications for  
forensic outcomes. The results showed that a total of 1,200 cases were analyzed and categorized into various  
wound types, which include: 40% cases of lacerations, 25% of incised wounds, 15% of abrasions, 10% of  
puncture wounds, 5% of gunshot wounds, and unclassified wounds. Findings reveal that sharp force injuries  
were the most prevalent, particularly among young males, with 66.7%, suggesting a correlation with  
interpersonal violence. The study underscores the importance of comprehensive wound analysis in forensic  
pathology, providing critical insights for law enforcement and legal proceedings. Recommendations for further  
research and enhanced forensic training in the region are proposed to improve the accuracy and efficacy of  
investigations involving traumatic injuries.  
Keywords: Forensic pathology, Wound, Sharp injuries, Blunt injuries, gunshot injuries, trauma, Crime scene.  
INTRODUCTION  
Forensic pathology plays a crucial role in the investigation of crimes, providing essential insights into the  
circumstances surrounding injuries and death [1]. In forensic science, injuries or wounds are marks that are  
produced by physical violence to a living body in which the tissue is divided or its natural continuity broken.  
Wound analysis in forensic science plays a critical role in understanding the dynamics of trauma and the  
circumstances surrounding injuries [2, 3]. The morphological spectrum of wound types provides vital insights  
into injury mechanisms , the nature of trauma, and potential implications for legal investigations. In the context  
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of Aba, a region marked by unique socio-cultural and environmental factors, characterizing wound types is  
particularly significant.  
This research aims to conduct a retrospective analysis of various wound morphologies encountered in forensic  
cases within Aba, examining their characteristics, causes, and correlations with specific types of violence or  
accidents. By systematically categorizing wound types, such as lacerations, abrasions, punctures, and contusions  
[4], this study seeks to identify prevalent patterns and trends that may inform both forensic practice and public  
health strategies.  
Moreover, understanding the morphological spectrum of wounds can aid forensic experts in accurately  
interpreting injury patterns, contributing to the resolution of criminal cases and the administration of justice [5].  
This analysis not only enhances the existing body of knowledge within forensic pathology but also addresses the  
broader implications of trauma in the Aba metropolis, ultimately fostering a better understanding of injury  
prevention and intervention strategies. Through a comprehensive examination of historical data, this research  
aims to bridge gaps in the forensic literature and lay a foundation for future studies in this vital area of forensic  
science.  
MATERIALS AND METHODS  
Study Design: This research employed a retrospective design to evaluate the morphological spectrum of  
forensic-interest wound types in Aba. The study focused on cases documented over a specific time frame (10  
years), allowing for comprehensive data collection and analysis.  
Study Population: The study population includes all forensic cases involving trauma treated at designated  
medical facilities and forensic laboratories from January 2014 to December 2023. Cases were selected based on  
the availability of detailed medical records, autopsy reports, and police documentation that provide relevant  
information about the wounds.  
Data Collection:  
Source of data: Medical records, autopsy reports, and police files were accessed through collaboration with  
local hospitals, forensic pathology units, and law enforcement agencies. Institutional review board (IRB)  
approval was obtained for the study to ensure compliance with ethical standards.  
Inclusion criteria: Cases included in the study had to meet the following criteria: Documented evidence of  
trauma, a clear description of wound morphology, and the availability of comprehensive medical or  
autopsy reports.  
Exclusion criteria: Cases were excluded if: Wound descriptions were insufficient or ambiguous, the case  
did not involve forensic investigation (e.g., Non-violent injuries).  
Data Extraction: Data were extracted using standardized data collection form that include the following:  
Patient demographics (age, sex, etc), Type of wound(laceration, abrasion, contusion, puncture, incised,  
etc), location of wound on the body, mechanism of injury(eg, assault, accident, self-inflicted), context of  
incidence(e.g. Domestic violence, gang related, accidental), Medical treatment received, and then Outcome  
(eg. Recovery, death)  
Wound Classification: Wounds were classified based on established forensic criteria, as follows:  
Lacerations: Irregular tears caused by blunt force.  
Abrasions: Superficial injuries resulting from friction.  
Contusions: Bruises resulting from blunt force trauma.  
Puncture wounds: Deep wounds caused by pointed objects.  
Incised wounds: Clean cuts caused by sharp instruments.Etc.  
.
Forensic examination Protocol: Each wound was examined using a standard protocol, which included:  
Visual inspection  
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Measurement of wound dimensions(length, width, depth)  
Photographic documentation.  
Assessment of associated injuries(e.g., fractures ,contusions)  
Interviews: Where possible, brief interviews were conducted with patients to gather information on the  
circumstances surrounding the injury, the incident context , and any relevant history.  
Data Analysis: Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 28.0). Descriptive statistics  
were calculated for demographic variables and wound types. Frequencies and percentages were used to  
summarize categorical variables, while means and standard deviations were employed for continuous variables.  
Chi-square tests were utilized to assess associations between categorical variables, with a significance level set  
at p<0.05  
Ethical Consideration: The study adhered to ethical guidelines for research involving human subjects. All data  
were anonymized to protect patient confidentiality, and informed consent was obtained where applicable. The  
research was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki  
RESULT  
A retrospective analysis of forensic-interest wound types in Aba over a 10-year  
period revealed a diverse  
morphological spectrum. A total of 1,200 cases were examined, categorized into various wound types, including  
lacerations, abrasions, incised wounds, puncture wounds, and gunshot wounds  
1. Lacerations: The most frequently observed wound type, comprising 40% of cases. These wounds  
were  
primarily associated with blunt force trauma and often presented irregular edges with varying degrees of  
tissue damage.  
2. Incised wounds: Representing 25% of the cases, incised wounds were predominantly found in cases of  
assault and were characterized by clean, sharp edges. Most occurred in the upper limbs and neck  
indicating a tendency towards defensive injuries.  
,
3. Abrasions: Accounting for 15% of the total, they were commonly associated with road traffic accidents and  
indicated superficial skin damage . The patterns observed often suggested the mechanism of injury, which  
includes  
scraping against rough surfaces.  
4. Puncture wounds: Making up 10% of the cases, these wounds were typically linked to stabbing incidents.  
Their round or oval shapes and depth variation highlighted the use of various sharp objects and pointed  
instruments.  
5. Gunshot wounds: Comprising 5% of the total, gunshot wounds were notable for their severe tissue damage  
and often resulted in complex injury patterns. The analysis includes both entrance and exit wounds, with  
significant implications for forensic ballistics.  
6. Unclassified wounds: The remaining 5% of wounds could not be specifically categorized due to atypical  
characteristics or insufficient documentation.  
The morphological spectrum of wounds in Aba reflects a range of violence-related incidents, with lacerations  
and incised wounds being the most prevalent. The findings underscore the importance of detailed forensic  
examination in understanding injury mechanisms  
and enhancing the investigative process in forensic  
medicine. Further studies are recommended to explore the underlying socio-economic factors contributing to  
these injuries.  
Table 1: Frequency Distribution of Wound Types.  
Wound Type  
Lacerations  
Frequency  
480  
Percentage (%)  
40  
25  
Incised Wounds  
300  
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)  
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Abrasions  
180  
120  
60  
15  
10  
5
Puncture Wounds  
Gunshot Wounds  
Unclassified Wounds  
Total  
60  
5
1,200  
100  
Table 2: Age Distribution for Wound Types of Forensic Interest in Aba.  
Age Group(Years)  
Frequency  
50  
Percentage (%)  
4.2  
11-20  
200  
300  
250  
200  
120  
60  
16.7  
25.0  
20.8  
16.7  
10.0  
5.0  
21-30  
31-40  
41-50  
51-60  
61-70  
20  
1.7  
70 and above  
Total  
200  
100  
The highest incidence of wounds is observed in the 21-30 age group, with 300(25%), suggesting that young  
adults are particularly vulnerable to violent encounters. This finding could reflect a variety of factors,  
including increased social interactions and potential exposure to violence during this life stage.  
The lower frequencies in the older age groups (61 and above), with 5% may indicate a decrease in violent  
interactions or a higher likelihood of fatal outcomes in older individuals.  
The youth demographic (0-20), with 20.9% also shows considerable representation, highlighting the need  
for targeted interventions aimed at reducing violence among younger populations.  
Table 3: Sex Distribution for Wound Types of Forensic Interest in Aba.  
Sex  
Frequency  
800  
Percentage (%)  
Male  
Female  
Total  
66.7  
33.3  
100  
400  
1,200  
The higher frequency of injuries among males (66.7%) may reflect societal factors, including increased  
exposure to violence or participation in high-risk activities.  
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The lower incidence among females (33.3%) highlights the need for understanding gender-specific risk  
factors and protective measures in the context of violence and injury.  
DISCUSSION  
The study of wound types in forensic contexts has garnered significant attention due to its implications for both  
legal investigations and public health. Analyzing the morphological spectrum of wounds offers insights into the  
mechanism of injury, the potential intent behind trauma, and the socio-environmental factors influencing such  
incidents. According to DiMaio and DiMaio [1], wounds can be broadly classified into several categories:  
lacerations, abrasions, contusions, puncture wounds, gunshot wounds, and incised wounds. Each type exhibits  
distinct morphological characteristics that can provide crucial information about the circumstances of the injury.  
For instance, lacerations often indicate blunt force trauma, while incised wounds are typically associated with  
sharp instruments [2]. Smithet al [6] opined that males are more likely to be involved in violent confrontations  
with reference  
by Sinha et al. [3] emphasizes the importance of accurate wound classification in forensic practice, noting that  
misinterpretation can lead to incorrect conclusions in legal contexts.  
to the societal norms regarding gender roles and the nature of violent interactions. The study  
The forensic analysis of wounds extends beyond mere classification; it plays a pivotal role in reconstructing  
events leading to injuries. Research by Sutherland et.al [7] highlights how understanding the biomechanics of  
wounds can aid in determining the nature of assaults and the potential culpability of the involved parties.  
Additionally, forensic pathologists utilize wound morphology to differentiate between accidental and intentional  
injuries, which are crucial for legal investigations [8]. As noted by Uche et al. [9], the socio-cultural dynamics  
of a region can significantly influence the types of wounds observed in forensic cases. In regions like Aba, factors  
such as socio-economic status, cultural practices, and local violence trends shape the prevalence and types of  
injuries reported. Studies such as those by Okwu et.al [10] indicate that urban settings with high crime rates  
often exhibit specific wound patterns associated with gang violence or domestic disputes. Understanding these  
contextual factors is essential to accurately interpreting forensic evidence  
.
Retrospective various geographical contexts, providing a framework for understanding injury patterns over  
time. Research by Adebayo et al. [11] in Nigeria illustrates the utility of retrospective studies in identifying  
trends in trauma cases, which can inform healthcare interventions and policy decisions. Such studies often rely  
on hospital records, autopsy reports, and police documentation to create a comprehensive overview of wound  
types and their implications.  
The morphological spectrum of wounds assessed in this study provides critical insights into the nature of injuries  
encountered in Aba over a 10-year  
period. This analysis is significant for understanding the patterns of  
violence in the region, the mechanisms of injury, and the implications for forensic investigations and public  
health.  
Prevalence of wound types: The analysis revealed that lacerations (40%) were the most frequently observed  
wound type, followed by incised wounds (25%). These findings are consistent with other studies that highlight  
the predominance of blunt force injuries in violent encounters [4]. The high incidence of lacerations suggests  
that interpersonal violence, including physical assaults and domestic violence, is a significant issue in the  
community. The irregular edges and varying degrees of tissue damage associated with lacerations emphasize the  
need for meticulous forensic documentation and analysis, as these factors can be pivotal in legal contexts [2].  
Incised wounds are indicative of sharp force injuries, often linked to intentional harm. Their prevalence,  
particularly in the upper limbs and neck, suggests a pattern of defensive injuries, reinforcing the notion of violent  
confrontations [12].The clean edges of incised wounds distinguish them from other injury types, and their  
prevalence necessitates further exploration of the socio-cultural factors contributing to such violence [13].  
Mechanisms of injury: The characteristics of the wounds provide substantial information on the mechanisms  
behind the injuries. Abrasions (15%) were commonly associated with road traffic accidents, highlighting a public  
safety concern in Aba. The occurrence of these injuries points to the need for enhanced road safety measures  
and community awareness programs to mitigate traffic-related injuries [14].  
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Puncture wounds (10%) and gunshot wounds (5%) were less common but carry significant implications. The  
presence of puncture wounds, often resulting from stabbing incidents, suggests a potential link to gang violence  
or domestic disputes [15]. Despite the lower incidence of gunshot wounds, their severe nature necessitates  
continued focus, particularly in regions experiencing rising gun violence [6]. Understanding the contexts of gun-  
related injuries is crucial for effective law enforcement and public health responses.  
Unclassified Wounds: The 5% of unclassified wounds present  
a notable challenge for forensic analysis.  
These injuries lacked sufficient documentation or displayed atypical characteristics, underscoring the importance  
of standardized documentation practices in forensic examinations [1]. Training forensic professionals in the  
recognition and classification of various wound types can enhance data quality and support  
comprehensive analysis in future studies.  
more  
Socio-Economic Context: The findings must be contextualized within Aba's socio-economic landscape  
.
Factors such as poverty, ignorance, unemployment, and limited access to healthcare contribute to the prevalence  
of violence and specific wound types [17]. A holistic understanding of these underlying issues is essential for  
developing effective prevention strategies. Community interventions focused on conflict resolution, mental  
health support, and economic development could help address the root causes of violence [18].  
Implications for Forensic Practice: The morphological spectrum of wounds documented in this study has  
significant implications for forensic practice. Accurate wound assessment is vital for legal investigations,  
providing critical evidence in criminal cases. The data can assist forensic pathologists and investigators in  
reconstructing events surrounding violent incidents, offering insights into the nature and severity of injuries  
sustained. Additionally, this analysis highlights the need for collaboration between forensic experts and law  
enforcement to ensure that wound documentation and analysis align with investigative goals.  
Gaps in Literature: Despite the wealth of information available, there remains a paucity of research specifically  
focused on the morphological spectrum of wounds in Aba. Most existing studies concentrate on broader regional  
analysis without delving into local specifics. This gap underscores the need for targeted research that considers  
the unique cultural and social factors shaping injury patterns in Aba, thereby  
understanding of forensic wound analysis in the region.  
providing a more nuanced  
Future Research Directions: This study opens avenues for further research. A longitudinal study could provide  
insights into trends over time, correlating changes in wound types with socio-cultural developments of public  
health initiatives. Additionally, qualitative research exploring the experiences of victims and perpetrators of  
violence could enhance understanding of the dynamics at play in Aba. Investigating the effectiveness of local  
interventions to reduce violence and improve community safety could yield valuable insights  
.
CONCLUSION  
This study provides a detailed examination of the types of wounds of forensic interest in Aba, Southeastern  
Nigeria, revealing critical insights into their prevalence, causes, and demographic associations. The retrospective  
analysis of wound types in Aba reveals a complex landscape of violence and injuries that necessitates a  
multifaceted approach to prevention and intervention. The significant demographic patterns observed-  
particularly the heightened risk among young males and the prevalence of domestic violence among females –  
underscore the complex interplay between social, economic, and cultural factors influencing injury occurrences.  
By understanding the morphological spectrum of wounds, stakeholders can better address the underlying issues  
contributing to violence in the community, ultimately fostering a safer environment for all residents. The  
integration of forensic findings into broader public health and safety initiatives is essential to developing  
effective strategies to reduce future violent injury incidence . Future research should expand on these findings  
to examine long-term trends in wound types and the effectiveness of interventions, thereby enhancing our  
understanding of violence in urban Nigeria.  
Funding:  
The researchers provide funding  
.
Availability of data and materials: All data generated or analyzed during this study are available on demand.  
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Declarations  
Ethics approval and consent to participate  
The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and was approved by the Chairman of  
the  
Ethics and Research Committee of Abia State University Teaching Hospital. Informed consent was  
obtained from all the respondents involved in the study.  
Consent for publication: Not applicable.  
Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests  
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