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Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts

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Published on: January 29, 2018

Decomposition variability between the scene and autopsy examination and implications for post-mortem interval

Stephanie B Giles¹, David Errickson¹, Nicholas Márquez-Grant¹

¹Cranfield Forensic Institute, Cranfield University, Shrivenham, Swindon, SN6 8LA, United Kingdom.

Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine

|November 28, 2021

Summary

Scene decomposition photographs provide more accurate post-mortem interval (PMI) estimations than autopsy images. Decomposition often increases after death, impacting PMI accuracy when relying solely on autopsy photos.

Keywords:

Accumulated degree days Autopsy Decomposition Forensic pathology Photographs Post-mortem interval

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Area of Science:

Forensic Science
Taphonomy
Post-mortem Interval Estimation

Background:

Forensic experts estimate post-mortem interval (PMI) using scene or autopsy photographs when direct assessment is impossible.
Decomposition can vary between the scene and autopsy, potentially skewing PMI estimations in casework.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate decomposition variability between scene and autopsy.
To assess the impact of this variability on the accuracy of PMI estimations.

Main Methods:

Analysis of scene and autopsy photographs from 94 cases with known PMI.
Utilized the total decomposition scoring (TDS) method and recorded 28 decomposition markers as a percentage of total body surface area (TBSA).

Main Results:

In 60% of cases, total decomposition scoring increased at autopsy, leading to significant PMI overestimations.
86% of decomposition markers showed variation between scene and autopsy.
Decomposition progressed during mortuary time lags (MTL) even under refrigeration (4°C).
Scene photographs yielded more accurate PMI estimations despite lower quality compared to autopsy photographs.

Conclusions:

Autopsy photographs may not accurately reflect scene decomposition, necessitating caution in PMI estimation.
Refrigeration at 4°C may not consistently halt decomposition.
Both scene and autopsy photographs are crucial for preventing misinterpretation and ensuring accurate PMI estimations.