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Related Experiment Video

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An Ex vivo Culture System to Study Thyroid Development
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Recommended Practices for Macerating Human Thyroid Cartilage.

Alexis LaGoy1, Elizabeth A Evangelou2, Tessa Somogyi2

  • 1Bristol-Myers Squibb, 6000 Thompson Road, East Syracuse, NY, 13057.

Journal of Forensic Sciences
|February 8, 2020
PubMed
Summary

Chemical maceration, particularly with bleach, is the most effective method for cleaning human thyroid cartilage during autopsy. This technique aids in identifying perimortem trauma by revealing subtle abnormalities on the cartilage.

Keywords:
Dermestes maculatuscartilage preparationchemical macerationdermestid beetlesforensic anthropologyforensic pathologymaceration methods

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Area of Science:

  • Forensic Anthropology
  • Forensic Pathology
  • Bioarchaeology

Background:

  • Thyroid cartilage abnormalities can indicate perimortem trauma, such as fractures or sharp force injuries.
  • Accurate observation of these abnormalities requires thorough removal of surrounding soft tissue during autopsy.
  • Standardized, efficient methods for tissue removal are crucial for forensic analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate and compare various tissue processing methods for human thyroid cartilage.
  • To identify the most effective and practical technique for forensic applications.

Main Methods:

  • Initial testing of maceration techniques (hot water, chemical/enzyme, dermestid beetles) on pig ears.
  • Application of selected methods to 37 human thyroid cartilage samples.
  • Scoring method efficacy using an adapted 22-point system.

Main Results:

  • Chemical maceration using bleach demonstrated superior efficacy in removing soft tissue.
  • Powdered laundry detergent (Arm & Hammer™) was a close second-best method.
  • Both methods are cost-effective, rapid, and simple to implement.

Conclusions:

  • Chemical maceration with bleach is recommended for processing human thyroid cartilage in forensic settings.
  • These accessible methods can enhance the identification of perimortem trauma.
  • The findings offer practical solutions for medical examiner offices and forensic anthropology labs.