Postmortem Changes: Putrefaction, Mummification, Adipocere Formation, and Maceration

Introduction

After death, the human body undergoes a series of changes influenced by environmental, microbial, and intrinsic factors. Understanding these postmortem changes is crucial in forensic medicine.

Putrefaction

Definition

Putrefaction is the decomposition of body tissues due to microbial activity, leading to the breakdown of organic matter.

Stages of Putrefaction

• Color Changes (Greenish discoloration due to hemolysis)
• Gas Formation (Distention of body cavities)
• Liquefaction (Soft tissue degradation)
• Skeletonization (Final stage where only bones remain)

Factors Affecting Decomposition

• Environmental Conditions (Temperature, humidity)
• Body Condition (Obesity, presence of wounds)
• Microbial Activity

Other Postmortem Changes

Mummification

Occurs when body tissues dry out due to arid environmental conditions, preventing microbial activity.

Adipocere Formation

Also known as 'saponification,' adipocere formation occurs when body fat transforms into a waxy substance in moist environments.

Maceration

Seen in intrauterine fetal death, maceration results from the body's prolonged exposure to amniotic fluid.