Rigor mortis first appears in which muscle group after death?
- A Lower limb muscles
- B Diaphragm
- C Muscles of the eyelids and face ✓
- D Heart (cardiac muscle)
Correct answer: C. Muscles of the eyelids and face
Explanation
Rigor mortis follows the Nysten's rule, appearing first in the small muscles of the face and eyelids (within 1-2 hours of death), then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, and finally the lower limbs. This descending progression is due to smaller muscles having less glycogen reserve. It is fully established in 6-12 hours, maximum between 12-24 hours, and passes off by 36-48 hours.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.