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Externally, the first and most consistent
and the same way, compression of the
signs include facial congestion, a reddish
chest against firm surfaces. Such as a
purple discoloration of the face and neck
ground, a piece of furniture, can
due to the presence of hemorrhages on the
prevent adequate lung expansion.
eyelids and facial skin. The lips and nails
Placement of the arms and legs must
may appear as bluish reflecting hypoxia. In
be observed closely to check for
cases of restraint or pressure, abrasions,
restricted mobility. The relationship
contusions, and ligature impressions can
between the body and the
often be seen on the wrist.
surrounding objects may provide
some evidence clues. Internally, the pathologist may find
congestion and edema of the lung, with a
It is equally important to look for
dark red appearance and an increased
signs of struggle or restraint marks.
weight due to fluid accumulation. Petechial
Because there is a chance of
hemorrhages may also be observed on the
differentiating between accidental
surface of internal organs such as the thymus
and homicidal positional asphyxia.
and pleura. If chest compression plays a
Restraint marks are often seen as
role, then there will be fractures seen in the
abrasions or contusions, typically
ribs or sternum.
caused by belts, rope, or straps. In
cases of physical struggle, the Abrasions on the forearms and the ligature
surroundings may reveal displaced marks on the wrist, together with the prone
furniture, broken objects, or drag position and facial congestion, suggest that
marks on the floor. Defensive marks the victim was restrained face-down. With a
such as nail marks, scratches, on the clear autopsy report and scene investigation
cheek or on the chin may be seen as a details, the forensic pathologist can provide
trial for escaping from binding, or to a clear conclusion on the cause and manner
change the position. of death, whether it was accidental,
homicidal, or custodial death.
Image 2: Shows Ligature
mark on the wrist Image3 :Bluish colored nails (cyanosis)
Source: https://www.atopika.org/en/atopic- Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cyanosis-
dermatitis/red-skin-syndrome adult_fingertips.PNG
