Historical landmarks of the evolution of forensic medicine and comparative development of medico-legal services in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Introduction History of any discipline, including medical sciences, is really valuable for us to understand the evolution of the subject through different stages of existence, how the present state of development has been achieved, appreciate the contributions of our ancestors and finally allow us to learn through the mistakes. As it says history helps us to understand the present, teaches us to think contemplating the experience that came before our time. The first available elements of medical science refer back to ancient Egyptian times of 4000 years BC. The English term ‘Forensic’ appeared to be originated in the mid-17 century from Latin term forensis (means in open court or public forum). The forensic medicine at present incorporates clinical forensic investigations, autopsy and supporting disciplines such as forensic science. It appeared from the historical evidence that clinical forensic medicine existed much earlier than the materialization of forensic pathology revolts to the examination of corpses.