Cyanide dermatosis or a post-mortem artefact?--A case report.

Area of Science:

• Forensic pathology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Chronic alcoholism presents unique challenges in postmortem investigations.
• Distinguishing between ante-mortem poisoning and postmortem changes is crucial.

Observation:

• A case involving a chronic alcoholic found deceased with unusual skin presentation.
• The body showed skin slippage and a blackened, charred-like appearance.
• Early morning intoxicant consumption was reported prior to death.

Findings:

• Viscera chemical analysis revealed significant quantities of cyanide.
• Histopathological examination showed no signs of blister formation or vital reaction in skin tissues.
• The observed skin changes were attributed to accelerated postmortem changes from localized heating by a sun-baked terrace.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of integrating clinical history, chemical analysis, and histopathology in forensic investigations.
• Underscores the potential for environmental factors to mimic or exacerbate postmortem changes.
• Emphasizes the need to consider localized thermal effects in cases with unusual skin presentations.