Question

A doctor at autopsy noticed the following finding on a cadaver. Which of the following is true regarding this finding?

• A. It is due to sulphaemoglobin pigment
• B. This change is seen at 24 hours
• C. It is non bacterial
• D. It is associated with lightning case

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In forensic medicine, certain postmortem findings can be attributed to specific pigments or changes in the body. In this scenario, the question pertains to identifying the nature of the finding observed at an autopsy. The correct option states that the finding is due to the presence of sulphaemoglobin pigment. Sulphaemoglobin is an altered form of hemoglobin that can occur under specific conditions, such as the presence of sulfur-containing compounds in the blood.

Additional options discussed in the question include considerations regarding timing and causes of postmortem changes:

• This change is seen at 24 hours: Some postmortem findings, such as rigor mortis or livor mortis, have typical timelines for development, but sulphaemoglobin-related changes do not specifically adhere to a 24-hour onset.
• It is non bacterial: While some postmortem changes can be attributed to bacterial activity, sulphaemoglobin is chemically induced, not due to microbial action.
• It is associated with lightning case: Specific skin markings or internal injuries might be associated with lightning strikes, but sulphaemoglobin is unrelated to lightning.

Therefore, the presence of sulphaemoglobin pigment is the most accurate explanation for the finding observed by the doctor at autopsy. These insights are crucial for understanding the postmortem examination and related forensic implications.