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Postmortem Interval Estimation With Corneal Endothelial Cell Density
Sait Özsoy1, Burak Kaya1, Hüseyin Balandiz1
1From the Department of Forensic Medicine, Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences.
The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|November 5, 2021
Summary
Corneal endothelial cell density (CECD) does not significantly decrease with postmortem interval (PMI). Age, not PMI, is the primary factor influencing CECD. Further research with standardized antemortem CECD is recommended for accurate PMI estimation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Forensic Science
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Corneal endothelial cell density (CECD) is highest in neonates and declines with age.
- Postmortem CECD is expected to decrease over time, but data is limited.
- Understanding CECD changes postmortem is crucial for forensic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure CECD in corneas with varying postmortem intervals (PMI).
- To investigate the association between CECD and PMI.
- To explore the relationship between CECD and age.
Main Methods:
- Specular microscopy was used to examine CECD in 555 corneas from 285 cases.
- Data included time of death and postmortem corneal removal time.
- Statistical analysis was performed to assess correlations.
Main Results:
- Average CECD was 2653 cells/mm² (right) and 2678 cells/mm² (left).
- A weak inverse correlation was observed between age and CECD.
- No significant relationship was found between PMI and CECD, although a decline was noted between 480-540 minutes.
Conclusions:
- PMI and cause of death did not significantly impact CECD.
- Age is a more significant factor than PMI in CECD decline.
- Standardized antemortem CECD measurements are needed for reliable PMI estimation.
