ABFM Death Investigation & Scene Analysis 2

Question 1

The Henssge nomogram is used in forensic pathology primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Estimate postmortem interval using rectal and ambient temperature along with body weight

Answer

The Henssge nomogram is a mathematical tool that estimates postmortem interval by comparing rectal body temperature to ambient temperature, accounting for body weight.

Question 2

Which insect order is typically the first to colonize a human body after death in temperate climates?

Accepted Answer

Diptera (flies)

Answer

Blowflies (Calliphoridae, order Diptera) are usually the first colonizers, arriving within minutes to hours of death, attracted by decomposition odors.

Question 3

The postmortem transformation of body fat into a waxy, soap-like substance is known as:

Accepted Answer

Adipocere formation

Answer

Adipocere (saponification) occurs when body fat undergoes hydrolysis and solidifies in moist, anaerobic burial environments, preserving the body's shape.

Question 4

Under which circumstance should a medical examiner typically assume jurisdiction over a death?

Accepted Answer

When death is sudden, unexpected, violent, or of unknown cause

Answer

Medical examiners take jurisdiction over sudden, unexpected, violent, suspicious, work-related, or unknown-cause deaths regardless of whether criminal activity is initially suspected.

Question 5

Petechial hemorrhages found in the conjunctiva and sclera at autopsy most commonly suggest:

Accepted Answer

Asphyxia or compression of cervical vessels

Answer

Petechiae in the eyes result from elevated venous pressure rupturing capillaries, classically seen in asphyxia, strangulation, or other neck compression.

(ABFM) American Board of Forensic Medicine Certification Practice Test

(ABFM) American Board of Forensic Medicine Certification Practice Test

ABFM Death Investigation & Scene Analysis 2