Medico-legal scene investigation in the case of burned bodies - a systematic review

Med Leg J. 2023 Dec;91(4):226-230. doi: 10.1177/00258172231191214. Epub 2023 Oct 4.

Abstract

A judicial on-site examination is essential for the correct analysis of a forensic case, particularly when there has been a fatal fire, as heat-related changes to bodies make identification by the forensic pathologist and other specialists difficult along with estimating the post-mortem interval and determining the precise cause and manner of death. We systematically reviewed all relevant articles dating from 2003 to 2022 in the PubMed database with a view to updating recommendations on how best to proceed. Our recommendations highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach involving various forensic specialists.

Keywords: On-site examination; charred; forensic anthropologist; forensic entomologist; forensic odontologist; forensic pathologist; heat-related changes; systematic review.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autopsy
  • Burns*
  • Humans
  • Soft Tissue Injuries*