Postmortem Interval

Abstract

Assessment of the postmortem interval in forensic anthropology considers the multitude of factors that influence decomposition and preservation of both soft and hard tissues. Although morphological indicators provide useful information, as the postmortem period increases, the time range and difficulty of estimation increase as well. A perspective from specialists in other areas of forensic science can be important, especially from forensic pathologists, entomologists, and botanists. Unusual preservation through mummification, including adipocere formation, can complicate assessment. Techniques to evaluate postmortem interval in addition to morphological assessment include chemical approaches and radiocarbon analysis. This article provides an overview on the Postmortem Interval while other chapters provide details on Postmortem Interval Immediate; Postmortem Interval, Early; and Postmortem Interval Late.