Late Postmortem changes – Adipocere
Introduction
- Modification of the process of putrefaction in the dead body is (checked and is replaced) adipocere formation.
- It is also called saponification
Process
- Hydrolisation of fatty tissue into fatty acids.
- Bacterial fat splitting enzymes and moisture are essential – Lecithinase.
- Composed of saturated fatty acids by palmitic, stearic, hydroxystearic, olic acids
- Yellowish white, greasy wax .
- Body has an offensive sweet smell(Rancid smelling wax like substance)
Site
- It forms at any site where fatty tissue is present.
- It is usually formed first in the subcutaneous tissues of cheeks, breasts, buttocks, and abdomen.
- The limbs, chest wall, or other parts of the body may also be affected.
- Sometimes in infants and obese individuals, the whole body is converted in adipocere formation.
Time required
- In summer-3 wks, in tropics-5 to 15 days.
Most common in
- Bodies immersed in water or in damp, warm environment with relative lack of air.
Factors Affecting
- Water is essential for the bacterial and enzymatic process of adipocere formation.
- A warm moist anaerobic conditions favour adipocere formation.
- Adipocere formation is more frequent in females, well-nourished mature newborns, and obese persons. Fetuses under seven months do not show adipocere formation.
Medicolegal Importance
- Identification
- When adipocere develops in the face, the facial features are preserved, helping in the identification.
- Cause of death can be determined as injuries can be recognized.
- Time since death can be estimated.
Exam Important
- Adipocere is most commonly seen in the body immersed in water or in damp, warm environment with lack of air.
- It is also called saponification
- Modification of putrefaction
- Body has an offensive sweet smell
- Hydrolisation of fatty tissue into fatty acids.
- Bacterial fat splitting enzymes and moisture are essential – Lecithinase.
- Cl. welchii bacteria helpful in adipocere formation
- It is usually formed first in the subcutaneous tissues of cheeks, breasts, buttocks, and abdomen.
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