Post-mortem computed tomography visualised fire related post-mortem changes of the head. Issue 4 (December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rutty, Guy N; Hollingbury, Frances E; Morgan, Bruno
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic radiology and imaging. Volume 3:Issue 4(2015)
• Page Start: 235
• Page End: 237
• Publication Date: 2015-12
• Subjects: Forensic -- Post-mortem computed tomography -- Fire -- Heat fractures -- Heat haematoma -- Heat brain herniation; Forensic radiography -- Periodicals; Magnetic resonance imaging -- Periodicals; Diagnostic imaging -- Periodicals; Diagnostic imaging; Forensic radiography; Magnetic resonance imaging; Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jofri.2015.05.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2212-4780

Abstract

Abstract: As post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) becomes more routinely utilised in day-to-day autopsy practice around the world, it is important that those reporting the images are aware of changes that may not be encountered in clinical radiology that can result in the post-mortem period but resemble antemortem pathology. Two cases are presented to illustrate the PMCT findings of three of the four classical changes that occur to the head after death as a result of the effect of prolonged exposure to heat. Highlights: Four principal changes can occur in the post-mortem period to the head due to prolonged exposure to heat. The changes of heat fractures, heat haematoma and heat related extradural brain herniation can be diagnosed on post-mortem computed tomography. As these changes are not encountered in clinical radiology they may cause diagnostic difficulties to those not encountering them before. These changes should not be confused with true antemortem injuries.