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Arthropods and Corpses

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Forensic Pathology Reviews

Part of the book series: Forensic Pathology Reviews ((FPR,volume 2))

Abstract

The determination of the colonization interval of a corpse (“postmortem interval”) has been the major topic of forensic entomologists since the 19th century. The method is based on the link of developmental stages of arthropods, especially of blowfly larvae, to their age. The major advantage against the standard methods for the determination of the early postmortem interval (by the classical forensic pathological methods such as body temperature, postmortem lividity and rigidity, and chemical investigations) is that arthropods can represent an accurate measure even in later stages of the postmortem interval when the classical forensic pathological methods fail. Apart from estimating the colonization interval, there are numerous other ways to use arthropods as forensic evidence. Recently, artifacts produced by arthropods as well as the proof of neglect of elderly persons and children have become a special focus of interest. This chapter deals with the broad range of possible applications of entomology, including case examples and practical guidelines that relate to history, classical applications, DNA typing, blood-spatter artifacts, estimation of the postmortem interval, cases of neglect, and entomotoxicology. Special reference is given to different arthropod species as an investigative and criminalistic tool.

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  1. International Forensic Research & Consulting, Cologne, Germany

    Mark Benecke PhD

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  1. Mark Benecke PhD
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  1. Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany

    Michael Tsokos MD

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© 2005 Humana Press Inc., Totowa, NJ

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Benecke, M. (2005). Arthropods and Corpses. In: Tsokos, M. (eds) Forensic Pathology Reviews. Forensic Pathology Reviews, vol 2. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1385/1-59259-872-2:207

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1385/1-59259-872-2:207

  • Publisher Name: Humana Press

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-58829-415-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-59259-872-4

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