Estimation of the Time since Death

Abstract

Background. The retrograde estimation of the time since death is still unsuccessfully solved problem in forensic medicine. The registration of the time of death is the principle task of every coroner. It should be put down in the day, month, year and hour. There are many methods of the retrograde estimation of the time since death based on different postmortem changes. Three of the most used methods which will be described precisely based on: postmortem changes, body cooling and postmortem biochemical changes in vitreous humour. Conclusions. The precise time of death could be established only by the statement of reliable witness or by objective records of cessation of vital functions. None of the method of the retrograde estimation of time since death is exact and the time of death could be only recorded in the interval of time. The time of death should be whenever is possible estimated by two or more different independent methods. Such results are more precise and comparable.