The polychromatism of postmortem cerebrospinal fluid.
S Trella1, C Reinert2, H Heinsen2
1Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Wuerzburg, Versbacher Str. 3, 97078, Wuerzburg, Germany. stefanie.trella@uni-wuerzburg.de.
Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology
|August 30, 2024
Summary
Postmortem cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) appearance varies. CSF color and optical density significantly correlate with the postmortem interval when using standardized sampling techniques.
Area of Science:
- Forensic science
- Neuropathology
- Analytical chemistry
Background:
- Postmortem cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is crucial in forensic investigations.
- CSF sample quality can be compromised by sampling techniques, leading to contamination or hemolysis.
- Standardized assessment methods are needed to interpret postmortem CSF findings accurately.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically document the quality and color of postmortem CSF samples.
- To investigate the relationship between CSF appearance and the postmortem interval.
- To evaluate the impact of sampling techniques on CSF integrity.
Main Methods:
- Systematic documentation of 183 postmortem CSF samples.
- Subjective assessment of CSF color and turbidity.
- Objective measurement of CSF supernatant optical density (OD) via standardized photography.
- Analysis regardless of cause of death or postmortem interval.
Main Results:
- 28 out of 183 CSF samples were crystal clear.
- Most samples exhibited color changes, ranging from xanthrochromic to rose hues.
- Intensive supernatant staining was observed in a small proportion of samples.
- CSF appearance and OD significantly correlated with the postmortem interval (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Postmortem CSF does not have a uniform appearance; it displays a diverse color spectrum.
- Standardized CSF sampling and analysis are essential for reliable interpretation.
- The postmortem interval is a significant factor influencing postmortem CSF characteristics.
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