New Perspectives in Forensic Diagnosis

Dear Colleagues, 

We are pleased to announce the launch of a new Special Issue, entitled "New Perspectives in Forensic Diagnosis”.

Diagnostic methods (toxicological, histological, bacteriological examinations, etc.) are necessary when an autopsy is inconclusive regarding the cause of death or if a question of a contributing factor in the occurrence of death arises. Toxicological examinations are in many countries mandatory in violent deaths, whereas radiological examinations (X-rays and CT scans) have progressively been incorporated into the routine of forensic practice. Several scientific areas are also involved in estimating the time of death and identifying a body, such as anthropology, odontology, radiology, entomology, and genetics.

Furthermore, diagnostic examinations are of paramount importance in forensic clinical medicine. The genetic profile of the perpetrator in cases of sexual violence can be achieved if a timely sampling is performed during the forensic clinical examination. Drug detection in the biological fluids or the hair of the victim may offer the only evidence in cases of drug-facilitated sexual assaults. Radiological and dental examinations are also necessary for age estimation in living people, especially in the context of the large wave of immigration during the last decades.

Recently, molecular autopsy has been highlighted as a substantial approach for establishing a genetic diagnosis in cases of “negative” autopsy. Sophisticated and promising methods and diagnostic strategies (biomarkers, proteomics, metabolomics, genomics, etc.) and their usefulness in forensic practice are also under exploration.

It is consequently obvious that a multidisciplinary and integrated approach is of paramount importance in the forensic investigation of a considerable number of cases, especially in light of the rapid scientific and technological progress. Groups from all related specialties and fields are encouraged to submit original research, short reports, reviews, commentaries, and case reports/case studies that provide new insights into the above related issues. We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Stavroula A. Papadodima
Dr. Laurent Martrille
Guest Editors

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