In a body recovered from tropical outdoor conditions, putrefaction has progressed to marbling — the green-black arborescent discolouration of skin following superficial vein patterns. The BEST time estimate for this degree of decomposition in a hot-humid Indian climate (35°C) is approximately:
- A 6–12 hours after death
- B 36–72 hours after death ✓
- C 5–7 days after death
- D 2–3 weeks after death
Explanation
Marbling (greenish-black arborescent discolouration along superficial veins from hydrogen sulphide formed by bacterial gas reacting with haemoglobin to produce sulphaemoglobin) typically appears within 36–72 hours in tropical conditions (30–40°C). Green discolouration of the right iliac fossa first appears at 24–48 hours, and marbling develops slightly later. At lower temperatures (e.g., 4°C), these changes may take weeks. This contrasts with temperate climates where marbling takes 3–5 days. The accelerating effect of heat is fundamental to PMI estimation in India.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.