[A transition zone phenomenon of the skin in cadavers lying in bath water].
In three cases a phenomenon is reported, seen on the skin of bodies found dead after a longer time of lying in bathtubs filled with water. The sign was parallel to the surface of the water and showed a breadth up to about 1 cm. Contrary to the surrounding skin, the mark was characterized by paleness and clearly les distinct formation of postmortem alterations as put-refaction. Searching for an explanation, temperature measurements were performed in model. The results showed the marginal paleness of the skin to be a thermal phase transition phenomenon. This mark has a forensic message too: it demonstrates a longer remaining of the corpse in the corresponding position, is a statement concerning the high of the water level, and allows a reconstruction of the original situation after manipulation, but is no sign of vital reaction.
2. Chirurgische Universitätsklinik Wien, Osterreich.
G
G
Wollenek
H
H
Dietl
W
W
Denk
G
G
Laufer
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001494:Baths; D002423:Cause of Death; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004556:Electric Injuries / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007101:Immersion / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D011180:Postmortem Changes; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology*; D013405:Suicide / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*
Ein Grenzzonenphänomen an der Haut im Badewannenwasser liegender Leichen.