CSI Forensic Death Investigation 2

Question 1

Which term describes the greenish discoloration of the abdomen that typically appears 24-36 hours after death?

Accepted Answer

Putrefaction

Answer

Putrefaction begins with greenish discoloration of the abdomen (usually at the right iliac fossa) as bacteria break down tissues, typically starting 24-36 hours post-mortem.

Question 2

What does the term 'asphyxia' refer to in a forensic death investigation context?

Accepted Answer

Deprivation of oxygen resulting in unconsciousness or death

Answer

Asphyxia refers to a condition in which the body is deprived of sufficient oxygen, which can lead to unconsciousness and death, and includes causes such as strangulation, suffocation, and drowning.

Question 3

During an autopsy, a forensic pathologist notes 'tardieu spots' on the visceral pleura. What are these?

Accepted Answer

Petechial hemorrhages caused by asphyxia

Answer

Tardieu spots are petechial hemorrhages found on serosal surfaces (such as the pleura and pericardium) that result from increased venous pressure during asphyxial death.

Question 4

A body recovered from water shows 'washerwoman's hands.' What does this finding indicate?

Accepted Answer

Prolonged immersion causing skin maceration

Answer

Washerwoman's hands (wrinkling and whitening of the skin on the palms and soles) result from prolonged immersion in water, causing maceration of the outer skin layers.

Question 5

Which type of injury pattern is most consistent with a high-velocity gunshot wound compared to a low-velocity wound?

Accepted Answer

Small entry wound with extensive internal cavitation

Answer

High-velocity projectiles create a temporary cavity through tissue displacement, resulting in a small entry wound but extensive internal tissue destruction and often a larger exit wound.

(CSI) Crime Scene Investigator Practice Test

(CSI) Crime Scene Investigator Practice Test

CSI Forensic Death Investigation 2