# Gunshot Wound Patterns: A Narrative Review From a Forensic Medical Perspective

**Authors:** Shahad A Alzahrani, Haya M Aldossari, Manal M Alessi, Sarah S Almutairi, Hitaf A Alqadoum, Ritesh G Menezes

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.101263 · Cureus · 2026-01-10

## TL;DR

This review explains how gunshot wounds are analyzed in forensic medicine to determine causes and circumstances of death.

## Contribution

The paper offers a comprehensive narrative review of gunshot wound classification and interpretation from a forensic medical perspective.

## Key findings

- Gunshot wound analysis is critical for determining the cause and manner of death in forensic investigations.
- Factors like weapon type, ammunition, and shooting distance significantly influence wound patterns.
- Proper evaluation of gunshot wounds supports legal proceedings and upholds justice.

## Abstract

Gunshot wounds rank among the frequently observed injuries in forensic pathology, possessing considerable legal and investigative relevance. Their varied manifestations, influenced by factors such as the weapon type, ammunition, distance of discharge, and trajectory of the projectile, necessitate a thorough forensic evaluation to ascertain the cause as well as the manner of death. This narrative review provides an overview of the classification and interpretation of gunshot wounds. Ultimately, this review underscores the vital role of gunshot wound analysis in forensic investigations and its importance in upholding justice and ensuring validity within legal contexts.

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Gunshot wounds (MESH:D014948), death (MESH:D003643), Wound (MESH:D014947)

## Full text

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## References

28 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12791185/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12791185