Abstract

Blunt abdominal trauma is commonly seen following traffic accidents, falls, and assaults. In blunt abdominal trauma, the liver, spleen, and kidneys are frequently injured organs. Like to other trauma abdominal trauma holds significant importance in criminal and legal cases In this study, we aimed to evaluate the facilitation of trauma by underlying diseases from a forensic medicine perspective by presenting the development of spleen rupture following blunt abdominal trauma in a victim with sarcoidosis. 43-year-old female patient who was referred to us by the relevant prosecutor’s office for preparation of a forensic report following an assault and for assessment of whether the existing findings were caused by the trauma or underlying diseases. Upon examination, it was determined that the patient’s blood pressure dropped and she lost consciousness after receiving a single kick to the abdomen. Investigations revealed splenic rupture, and splenectomy was performed. Pathological examination showed granulomatous non-caseating sarcoidosis findings, and increased splenic fragility was identified. In this case of isolated splenic rupture, a kick to the abdomen caused rupture of the spleen, which was more fragile due to sarcoidosis, resulting in intra-abdominal hemorrhage and a life-threatening condition. We believe that careful collection of patient history, review of prior medical records, and consideration of pre-existing diseases during forensic report preparation can prevent potential unjust punishments.

Key words: Forensic medicine, forensic report, sarcoidosis, blunt abdominal trauma