‘Patterned’ abrasion is variety of:
**Core Concept**
Patterned abrasions are characterized by a distinct, organized pattern of skin damage, typically caused by sustained, localized pressure rather than friction or impact. These abrasions are commonly seen in forensic cases involving prolonged pressure on a body part, such as from a restraint or compression.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pressure abrasion occurs when continuous, steady pressure is applied to the skin, leading to a patterned, often geometric or structured abrasion. Unlike sliding abrasions (which show linear or scratch-like marks from motion), pressure abrasions result from static or sustained force, such as from a tight garment, belt, or medical device. The pattern reflects the shape and distribution of the pressure source, making it identifiable and distinct in forensic analysis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
Option A: Linear abrasion is caused by blunt force or dragging, resulting in straight, parallel lines, not a patterned distribution.
Option C: Sliding abrasion results from movement across the skin, producing linear or streaked marks, not organized patterns from pressure.
Option D: A superficial bruise is a hematoma due to vascular rupture, not an abrasion, and lacks the mechanical pattern associated with abrasions.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In forensic medicine, patterned abrasions are key indicators of prolonged pressure, such as in cases of restraint or medical equipment use. Always differentiate them from linear or sliding abrasions based on mechanism and pattern morphology.
β Correct Answer: B. Pressure abrasion