Changes After Death
Understanding the changes that occur after death is essential in forensic science. These postmortem changes help determine the time and cause of death, and have critical legal and investigative implications.
Table of Contents
Types of Changes After Death
There are two types of postmortem changes:
- Early Changes: Change in eyes, Effect on skin, Post mortem staining, Rigor Mortis, Cadaveric Spasm.
- Late Changes: Putrefaction, Adipocere Formation, Mummification.
Early Changes:
1. Change in Eyes
- Loss of corneal reflex and opacity of eyes
- Loss of brightness
- Fixed, dilated pupils
- Blackish brown discoloration if eyes remain open
- Retinal vein fragmentation
2. Effect on Skin
- Paleness of skin
- Dry, less supple texture
- Loss of translucency
3. Post Mortem Lividity
Develops within 30 minutes to 2 hours due to blood settling in lower body areas. It appears as purplish-red patches and helps determine if the body was moved after death.
4. Post Mortem Staining
- Appears 2-3 hours post-death as small patches
- Fully developed in 6-8 hours
- Staining depends on body position and external pressure
5. Rigor Mortis
Stiffening of muscles after death, beginning with the face and moving downward. Fully develops in 12 hours.
6. Cadaveric Spasm
Instant stiffening of certain muscle groups at the moment of death, usually in violent or emotional deaths.
Late Changes:
1. Putrefaction
The process of decomposition due to autolysis and microbial activity. Begins with the abdominal area.
- Autolysis: Self-digestion by enzymes
- Bacteria: Internal (gut flora) and external sources
2. Adipocere Formation
Also known as saponification, it’s the transformation of body fat into a waxy substance due to moisture and bacterial action.
- Stage 1: Hydrolysis into unsaturated fatty acids
- Stage 2: Solidification of fatty acids
3. Mummification
Occurs in hot, dry conditions due to moisture loss, preventing bacterial decay.
- Skin dries and sticks to bones
- Organs shrink and become difficult to identify
- Complete mummification takes 3 weeks to 3 months
Final Thoughts
Recognizing early and late postmortem changes is essential for forensic analysis. These processes offer valuable insights into the time and cause of death, aiding both investigations and legal proceedings.
