In forensic examination of a stab wound, which of the following findings would suggest the weapon used was a double-edged blade (like a dagger) rather than a single-edged blade (like a kitchen knife)?

Explanation

## Forensic Analysis of Stab Wound Margins and Blade Type ### Single-Edged Blade (e.g., Kitchen Knife) - Produces **one sharp margin** (cut by the sharp edge) - Produces **one blunt or irregular margin** (produced by the spine/back of the blade) - The blunt margin may show tissue crushing or irregularity - Asymmetrical appearance on wound examination ### Double-Edged Blade (e.g., Dagger, Bayonet) - Produces **two sharp margins** (both edges are cutting surfaces) - Both margins are clean and well-defined - **Symmetrical appearance** of the wound - No blunt margin present **High-Yield:** The presence or absence of a blunt margin is the key forensic indicator of blade type. This finding can be crucial in criminal investigations to narrow down the weapon used. **Key Point:** Careful examination of wound margins under magnification is essential in forensic pathology to determine weapon characteristics. **Clinical Pearl:** In autopsy cases, the wound margins should be examined with a hand lens or magnifying glass, and photographs should be taken before any tissue manipulation occurs. **Mnemonic:** **DOUBLE = Dual sharp edges, Dagger-like**; **SINGLE = Sharp + blunt edges, Skewed margins**