[On the forensic significance of cadaveric spots color in death from general hypothermia]

The forensic medical investigation of occurrence mechanisms (causes) and color spectrum of cadaveric spots in corpses of persons who were victims of general accidental hypothermia remains a relevant topic, causing many discussions in the scientific literature. Issues concerning the color, localization, degree of pronouncement and timing of cadaveric spots occurrence require careful analysis as they are important both for forensic medical practice and criminalistics and for understanding the processes developing in the human body after death. In the investigation of cadaveric spots resulting from general hypothermia, it should be considered that these spots are formed as a result of blood redistribution in tissues. This phenomenon is related to the fact that when the body temperature is lowered, there is a vasoconstriction, which contributes to the accumulation of blood in certain areas, as well as direct primary cryodestruction of erythrocytes in superficial tissues occurs. As a result of this process, spots, which can vary in color from bright red to purple depending on the degree of tissue hypoxia and conversely tissue oxygen saturation as well as time since death, are formed. According to our own observations and literature analysis, cadaveric spots in death from general hypothermia begin to occur on average 1-2 h after death coming. They become most pronounced after 6-12 h, while their maximum brightness is observed after about 24 h. The localization of cadaveric spots usually depends on the body's position and can vary: spots most commonly emerge on the back, buttocks and posterior surfaces of the extremities when laying down without changing the position. The color spectrum of cadaveric spots can change as well. Initially they may have a bright pink-red shade, which over time changes to darker tones such as purple, violet or even black, depending on the environmental impact and tissue condition. These changes may be caused by both the internal processes and influence of external factors such as ambient temperature. The study of the mechanisms of cadaveric spots formation is important for forensic medical practice, as it allows forensic medical experts to determine more accurately the time and cause of death. Understanding of how general hypothermia affects the process of thanatogenesis can help to establish legally significant facts, for example in cases involving accidents or crimes. Thus, the examination of cadaveric spots in victims of general accidental hypothermia is a complex and multifaceted process that requires careful approach and in-depth analysis. This knowledge not only contributes to a more accurate interpretation of forensic medical data, but also broadens the understanding of the pathophysiological changes that occur during cooling in the human body before death, at the time of death and after death from hypothermia.