ABFM Principles of Forensic Pathology 2

Question 1

Which pattern of lividity (livor mortis) would suggest a body was moved after death?

Accepted Answer

Lividity on the anterior surface of a body found face-up

Answer

When lividity does not correspond to the position in which the body was found, it indicates the body was repositioned after lividity fixed (typically 8–12 hours post-mortem).

Question 2

A forensic pathologist identifies petechial hemorrhages in the conjunctivae of a homicide victim. What mechanism is most commonly associated with this finding?

Accepted Answer

Asphyxia causing elevated venous pressure

Answer

Conjunctival petechiae result from rupture of small vessels due to increased intravascular pressure during asphyxia, particularly in compression of the neck.

Question 3

In a suspected drowning case, which autopsy finding most specifically supports immersion as the cause of death rather than submersion of an already-dead body?

Accepted Answer

Presence of diatoms in bone marrow

Answer

Diatoms reaching bone marrow require active circulation at the time of water inhalation, making marrow diatom presence a strong indicator of drowning as the cause of death.

Question 4

What is the significance of 'defense wounds' in a forensic autopsy?

Accepted Answer

They suggest the victim was conscious and attempted to ward off an attack

Answer

Defense wounds, typically on the forearms, hands, or ulnar aspects of the arms, indicate the victim was alert and actively trying to protect themselves from an assault.

Question 5

A toxicology report shows a blood ethanol concentration of 0.30 g/dL in a decedent. Which post-mortem artifact must be considered when interpreting this result?

Accepted Answer

Putrefaction can produce endogenous ethanol, falsely elevating levels

Answer

Bacterial fermentation during putrefaction can generate endogenous ethanol, potentially elevating measured blood alcohol levels above what was present at the time of death.

(ABFM) American Board of Forensic Medicine Certification Practice Test

(ABFM) American Board of Forensic Medicine Certification Practice Test

ABFM Principles of Forensic Pathology 2