Multidisciplinary Forensic Approach in "Complex" Bodies: Systematic Review and Procedural Proposal

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Forensic Anthropology
• Postmortem Investigations

Background:

• Severely altered cadavers (decomposed, mummified, charred, dismembered) present significant challenges in forensic investigations.
• Difficulties include identification, postmortem interval (PMI) estimation, and determination of manner and cause of death.
• Integrating routine autopsy, histology, and toxicology with specialized forensic techniques is crucial for effective case resolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and evaluate forensic approaches used in managing severely altered bodies.
• To assess the role of each approach in solving complex forensic cases.
• To develop a practical flowchart for postmortem activities in forensic practice.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.
• The review focused on studies detailing the management of decomposed, mummified, charred, skeletonized, or dismembered human remains.
• Analysis of existing literature to identify effective forensic methodologies.

Main Results:

• Various forensic approaches, including advanced imaging and molecular techniques, are vital for identification and PMI estimation in complex cases.
• Histology, toxicology, and entomology play critical roles depending on the state of decomposition.
• The review identified gaps in standardized protocols for certain types of alterations.

Conclusions:

• A multidisciplinary approach integrating diverse forensic techniques is essential for successfully managing severely altered cadavers.
• The proposed flowchart provides a structured framework to guide forensic practitioners in complex postmortem examinations.
• Further research is needed to refine protocols for specific challenging scenarios in forensic pathology.