Histopathological Features of Skin changes caused by Electrocution: An Autopsy study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Dependency to electrical equipments and improper safety measures has led to a significant increase in deaths due to electrocution. Confirming the cause of death in electrocution is one of the biggest challenges. Skin is the most frequently involved tissue in electrocution and histopathology of skin from electric marks aids in proper diagnosis. OBJECTIVES: To study the histomorphological features of epidermis and dermis in skin tissue of entry and exit wounds in electrocution deaths. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is an observational study done over a period of one year. Skin biopsy from medico legal autopsy of non-lightening electrocution deaths obtained from entry or exit wound site were included for the study. Gross and histopathological details were studied and data analyzed. RESULTS: Significant gross features were surface discoloration of skin 16 (61%) and ulceration 05 (20%). Microscopic features were coagulative necrosis 21 (80.7%), dermo-epidermal separation 20 (80.7%), focal ulceration of epithelium 05 (19%), clefting of epidermis (60%), streaming of nuclei (92.3%), elongation of nuclei (92.3%) and microblisters 02 (15.3%). CONCLUSION: One of the important causes of negative autopsy is electrocution deaths. In such cases dermatopathology is a diagnostic tool coupled with circumstantial evidence. Histological hallmark of electrocution skin injury is epidermal nuclear elongation.