FSC100 Chapter 6 Notes

Death

Death is a continuous process that occurs in stages and is influenced by the body's condition and the environment.

Somatic Death

The first stage of death marked by the cessation of cardiac activity, respiration, reflexes, and brain activity.

Cellular Death (Autolysis)

The final stage of death when all cells in the body are dead.

Algor mortis

The cooling of the body's temperature to the ambient environment after death.

Livor mortis

The pooling and clotting of blood in areas of the body where there is no pressure, causing bruise-like coloring.

Rigor mortis

The stiffening of muscles due to lactic acid buildup after death.

Putrefaction

The process of decaying or rotting of a body or other organic matter.

Purge Fluid

Decomposition fluid that may exude from the oral and nasal passages, as well as other body cavities.

Initial decay

Microorganisms are active internally, extensive gases produced, body intact and fresh in appearance.

Black Putrefaction

Body collapses with increased pressure, gases and purge fluid drain, very strong odor of decay, mottled and blackening of exposed flesh, internal organs and tissues break down into a creamy consistency.

Dry Decay

Flesh dries and hardens into a papery or leathery texture.

Skeletonization

The final stage of decomposition where soft tissue is mostly gone, exposing the bone.

Small vs Large body size

Small bodies decompose at a faster rate than large bodies.

Whole vs Wounded / dismembered

Wounded or dismembered bodies decompose at a faster rate due to more tissues and openings available for microbial and insect infestation.

Nude vs Clothed and/or wrapped

Nude bodies decompose at a faster rate due to exposure to the elements.

Contained and buried vs Not contained and buried

Contained and buried bodies decompose at a slower rate.

Insect Activity

Insect activity significantly influences the rate and condition of decomposition.

Bodies in Water

Determining the time of death for bodies found in water is challenging due to various factors such as water temperature and salt or freshwater.

Cold Climate

Decomposition rate is slowed in cold climates, and frozen bodies that are thawed decompose rapidly.

Hot Climate

Hot and humid weather accelerates decomposition, while dry heat can desiccate flesh, preserving skin and hair.