Challenges presented by decomposition in medico-legal autopsies-A case series

Abstract

Decomposition is a natural process which turns complex organic elements into simpler forms. The changes brought in by the decomposition is still a hurdle even in this era of evolvement of advanced scientific techniques. Conditions like existence of differential decomposition in the same cadaver might confuse an inexperienced forensic pathologist. Interdisciplinary approach like by using forensic entomology and histopathology plays an important role while dealing the cases with advanced decomposition changes. Yet some times the results might lead us to a blind end in achieving few of the objectives of a medico-legal autopsy. The two cases in this discussion presents different decomposition changes and the hurdles posed by them.