Histopathological Changes in Skin-A Tool to Establish Time Since Death in First 24 Hours

Abstract

Aim: Determination of the time since death is one of the greatest challenge in the practice of Forensic
Medicine. There is currently very limited scientific information regarding the process of cutaneous
decomposition. This study is aimed at throwing more light towards this field.
Method: 30 skin samples from human cadavers are collected where actual time of death is known, from
Yenepoya Medical College, Mangalore. Skin samples (1 x 2 cm) from the anterior chest were collected,
parallel to the longitudinal midline incision. Tissues were fixed in 10% formalin, embedded in paraffin wax,
and stained with hematoxylin-eosin stain. The skin samples were observed under light microscope for the
changes.
Results: Epidermis and Dermis showed marked changes in the histology with increasing PMI and is the
most reliable site to look for.
Conclusion: This study will throw a better light to post-mortem skin changes and their role in determination
of the time since death.