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Assessment of eyeball findings on two sequential post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) : no reliable marker for
Himeko Kubota1,2, Yohsuke Makino3,4, Maiko Yoshida3
1Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan. himeko_k@chiba-u.jp.
International Journal of Legal Medicine
|May 12, 2026
Summary
Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) of eyeballs shows early changes: reduced diameter and increased vitreous radiodensities. However, these findings cannot reliably estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI).
Area of Science:
- Forensic radiology
- Post-mortem imaging analysis
- Medical imaging
Background:
- Understanding post-mortem changes in post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) is crucial for accurate image interpretation.
- Eyeball changes on PMCT have been understudied.
- This research investigates early post-mortem ocular alterations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document changes in eyeball findings on PMCT.
- To determine if these changes can estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI).
Main Methods:
- Analysis of CT scans from 29 patients taken at two time points: near death and prior to autopsy (15-196 hours post-mortem).
- Measurements included maximum longitudinal diameter, lens position, and vitreous radiodensities.
- Statistical analysis using Wilcoxon signed-rank test and regression analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in maximum longitudinal diameter (p < 0.0001).
- Significant increase in vitreous radiodensities (p < 0.0001).
- No significant change in lens position; no correlation found between measurements and elapsed time.
Conclusions:
- Early post-mortem changes in eyeballs include decreased diameter and increased vitreous radiodensities.
- These specific ocular changes are not suitable for estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI).
