The analysis of the publications of the journal "Forensic medical examination" in the field of research «identification» for the period from 1980 to 2018 is carried out. Using the scientometric method, we studied the dynamics of publications on the study of the development of the scientific direction in order to objectively evaluate its relevance and possible prospects. The results of the analytical study demonstrated a wide range of objects and research methods. The leading scientific development trends in the field of forensic medical identification of the person are established.