Insect Indicators of Abuse or Neglect - Indicators of Abuse and Neglect

Indicators of Abuse and Neglect

Insects are valuable as forensic indicators in cases of abuse and neglect. Some insects, such as the Green Bottle Fly, (Lucilia sericata (Meigen)), are drawn to odors, such as ammonia, resulting from urine or fecal contamination. Adult green bottle flies tend to be attracted to an incontinent individual who lacks the voluntary control of excretory functions. Such examples include a baby who has not had its diapers changed often or an incontinent elderly person who has not been helped in maintaining routine bodily hygiene. Flies lay their eggs in and around clothing and skin which, if left undiscovered, will hatch into maggots (larvae) which begin feeding upon flesh, open wounds, ulcers, and any natural bodily entry point. Over time, the flesh will be eaten away, and the region may be further infected by bacteria or invaded by other insects. This is known as myiasis.

Read more about this topic:  Insect Indicators Of Abuse Or Neglect

Famous quotes containing the words abuse and/or neglect:

    Incest and child abuse are not yet being presented as recreational.
    Mason Cooley (b. 1927)

    We now recognize that abuse and neglect may be as frequent in nuclear families as love, protection, and commitment are in nonnuclear families.
    David Elkind (20th century)