A Comprehensive Review of Forensic Medicine: Its Evolution, Scope, Applications, and Future Directions

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 03 | Page : 18 28
    By

    Tabasum Rouf,

  • Iftikhar Ahmed,

  1. PG Scholar, Department Preventive and Social Medicine, Hakim Syed Ziaul Hassan Government Unani Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
  2. Professor, Department Preventive and Social Medicine, Hakim Syed Ziaul Hassan Government Unani Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Forensic medicine, a key junction of medical and law, has evolved substantially throughout the centuries, responding to scientific and technological advances. Forensic medicine, derived from the Latin term forensis, meaning “before the forum,” has evolved significantly over the centuries from rudimentary methods of determining the cause of death to a sophisticated and highly specialized medical discipline. Today, it encompasses a wide range of fields, including clinical forensic medicine, forensic pathology, and toxicology, all of which contribute to the investigation of crimes, identification of individuals, and administration of justice. This evolution reflects advancements in science, technology, and legal systems, positioning forensic medicine as a critical link between medicine and law. Today, forensic medicine is an indispensable discipline that plays a crucial role in criminal investigations, civil litigation, and human rights advocacy, drawing upon a wide range of advanced scientific techniques. Modern practices incorporate cutting-edge tools such as DNA analysis for accurate identification, digital forensics for uncovering electronic evidence, and radiological imaging for non-invasive examinations, greatly enhancing the precision and reliability of legal proceedings. This study explores the historical evolution of forensic medicine, its expanding contemporary scope, and its diverse applications in both criminal and civil justice systems, underscoring its pivotal contribution to truth-seeking and the pursuit of justice in society.

Keywords: Forensic Medicine: Forensic pathology: DNA analysis: Clinical Forensic Medicine: Locard’s exchange principle

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions ]

How to cite this article:
Tabasum Rouf, Iftikhar Ahmed. A Comprehensive Review of Forensic Medicine: Its Evolution, Scope, Applications, and Future Directions. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions. 2025; 15(03):18-28.
How to cite this URL:
Tabasum Rouf, Iftikhar Ahmed. A Comprehensive Review of Forensic Medicine: Its Evolution, Scope, Applications, and Future Directions. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions. 2025; 15(03):18-28. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjohp/article=2025/view=230522


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 15
Issue 03
Received 27/05/2025
Accepted 20/06/2025
Published 04/11/2025
Publication Time 161 Days
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