What is the primary focus of forensic pathology?
Forensic pathology investigates causes of death through post-mortem examinations, especially in suspicious or unexplained cases.
What is rigor mortis?
Rigor mortis is the post-mortem stiffening of muscles due to chemical changes in muscle tissue after death.
What is the purpose of an autopsy in forensic cases?
An autopsy helps determine the cause, mechanism, and manner of death, and may provide legal evidence.
What is livor mortis?
Livor mortis is the settling of blood in the lower parts of the body after death, causing skin discoloration.
Which body organ is commonly examined to detect drug toxicity?
The liver metabolizes drugs and is commonly sampled to detect toxic substances during autopsy.
Why is time of death estimation important?
Estimating time of death helps reconstruct the events leading to death and supports criminal investigations.
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What is the significance of petechial hemorrhages?
Petechial hemorrhages are small blood spots that may indicate asphyxiation or strangulation.
Which evidence is critical for firearm-related deaths?
Gunshot residue, entry/exit wounds, and trajectory analysis are essential for understanding firearm-related fatalities.
How can forensic pathologists identify unknown bodies?
Identification methods include dental records, fingerprints, and DNA analysis.