Domestic Violence Leading to Pediatric Burns: A Clinical Forensic Case From East Java, Indonesia

Abstract Background: Burns encompassed all types of injuries to the skin and underlying tissues caused by heat, cold (e.g., frostbite), chemicals, electricity, radiation, or trauma. They often result in significant physical, psychological, and legal implications, especially in determining the extent of injury and potential criminal liability. In East Java, Indonesia—a region with a dense population and varied socio-economic conditions—burn cases require meticulous clinical forensic examinations to support law enforcement and legal processes. Method: This study presents a clinical forensic examination conducted at the request of law enforcement through a visum et repertum letter (No. VER/B/92/IV/YAN.2.14/2023/SPKT Polsek Lakarsantri). The case involved a 17-year-old male patient treated at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia. Result: The patient sustained burns covering 68% of his total body surface area, involving the face, neck, chest, upper limbs, and lower limbs, accompanied by inhalation trauma. The burns occurred during a fire at his stepfather's house while he was asleep. Clinical management included debridement and wound dressing to prevent infection, reduce exudate, and maintain a moist environment for healing. The forensic evaluation concluded that the injuries could be classified as fatal based on Article 90 of the Indonesian Penal Code. Conclusion: Comprehensive clinical forensic examinations are vital in burn cases, as the findings are essential for assessing the severity of injuries and determining legal accountability. This case highlights the critical role of forensic evaluations in supporting justice and ensuring appropriate care for burn victims in East Java. Keywords: forensic sciences; burns; visum et repertum; east java; burn injury severity