Traumatic complete outer ear amputation by human bite, a forensic case report and review of the literature

Abstract

We present a case of a complete external ear amputation, caused by a human bite, that took place during a quarrel in a local farmers' market. The male victim was transferred to the Hospital. After surgical reattachment of the auricle, a forensic clinical examination was performed, as per legal obligation. During examination, the victim was found to have sustained: contusions of the orbital regions (lower eyelids), bilaterally, soft tissue oedema of the forehead (to the left of the middle line), and contusion of the right neck area. He also sustained multiple soft tissue injuries (contusions, abrasions) on the torso and on both upper and lower extremities. Clinical forensic examination of human bite injuries requires thorough description of the wound, proper photography and possibly collection of swabs for DNA identification (in case of unknown perpetrator). Nevertheless, the Forensic Pathologist is often required to perform clinical examination, only after medical care has been provided. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the need of proper documentation and act accordingly.

Keywords: Clinical forensic medicine; Complete external ear amputation; Human bite; Interpersonal violence.