The organ first showing the
putrefactive change is the trachea; that which resists putrefaction
longest is the uterus. These putrefactive changes are modified by the
fat or lean condition of the body, the temperature (putrefaction taking
place more rapidly in summer than in winter), access of air, the period,
place, mode of interment, age, etc. Bodies which remain in water putrefy
more slowly than those in air.
=Saponification.=--In bodies which are very fat and have lain in water
or moist soil for from one to three years this process takes place, the
fat uniting with the ammonia given off by the decomposition to form
_adipocere_. This consists of a margarate or stearate of ammonium with
lime, oxide of iron, potash, certain fatty acids, and a yellowish
odorous matter. It has a fatty, unctuous feel, is either pure white or
pale yellow, with an odour of decayed cheese. Small portions of the body
may show signs of this change in six weeks.
=Post-Mortem Examination.=--Never make an autopsy in criminal cases
without a written order from the coroner or Procurator Fiscal. If
authorized, however, first have the body identified, then photographed
if it has not been identified.
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