A forensic autopsy reveals a well-demarcated, leathery eschar around the lips and chin of a suicide victim who ingested an industrial acid. The eschar has a distinct yellow-brown colour. Which corrosive was most likely ingested?

• A Nitric acid ✓
• B Sulfuric acid
• C Hydrochloric acid
• D Carbolic acid (phenol)

Explanation

Nitric acid produces a characteristic yellow eschar because the acid reacts with tissue proteins through the xanthoprotein reaction, nitrating aromatic amino acids such as tyrosine. Sulfuric acid gives a black or dark brown eschar, hydrochloric acid a whitish to grey-brown eschar, and phenol a soft whitish eschar with its characteristic carbolic odour. The colour of the eschar therefore directly identifies the acid.

Reference: Parikh's Textbook of Medical Jurisprudence, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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