Keywords
Electrolytes
Vitreous humor
Sodium
Potassium
Chloride
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction: In forensic science, precise estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial for establishing chronotanatology. Biochemical analysis of components such as sodium, potassium, and chloride in body fluids, especially vitreous humor, provides valuable information to estimate time since death. Objective: To determine the hydroelectrolytic changes in human cadavers during a 36-hour postmortem period, using vitreous humor analysis. Methodology: This is an observational, cross-sectional, quantitative, and retrospective study. A total of 62 autopsied cadavers from the Department of Legal Medicine of the Public Ministry of Paraguay were analyzed for sodium, potassium, and chloride levels through spectrophotometric analysis of vitreous humor. Results: Potassium levels increased progressively with time post mortem, while sodium and chloride levels tended to decrease. Potassium showed significant correlation with PMI (r = 0.89), making it a reliable parameter for chronotanatological estimations. Conclusion: Potassium concentration in vitreous humor is a useful and reliable marker for estimating time of death, particularly within the first 36 hours. Sodium and chloride decline also provide clues, although with lower correlation.
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