Corpse dismemberment: A case series. Solving the puzzle through an integrated multidisciplinary approach

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Forensic Science
• Legal Medicine

Background:

• Cadaveric dismemberment presents significant challenges in forensic pathology.
• Difficulties include victim identification, cause of death determination, and estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI).
• Lack of standardized investigative protocols complicates analysis across different forensic centers.

Observation:

• A case series of dismemberment occurring post-murder was analyzed.
• An integrated protocol involving crime scene investigation, post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT), autopsy, toxicology, histology, immunohistochemistry, and genetic analysis was applied.
• Standardized radiography before autopsy and immunohistochemistry for lesion vitality and dismemberment surfaces were key components.

Findings:

• The proposed protocol enhances diagnostic accuracy in dismembered corpse cases.
• PMCT provides crucial information guiding the autopsy.
• Immunohistochemistry aids in assessing lesion vitality and dismemberment surface characteristics.
• Genetic analysis facilitates victim identification, and toxicology detects substance abuse.

Implications:

• The study demonstrates the utility of a standardized, multi-disciplinary protocol for dismembered remains.
• This approach improves the reliability of forensic investigations in complex cases.
• Adoption of this protocol can lead to more accurate and efficient outcomes in forensic pathology.