Extrapolation of Three Hourly Post-Mortem Interval using Some Vitreous Chemistry Parameters

Abstract

Background Study: Vitreous humor is an inert, transparent, jelly like substance that fills the posterior four fifths of the cavity of the eyeball. It is the choice sample in post-mortem investigation and analysis. Objective of study: To determine vitreous biochemical parameters suitable for postmortem interval (PMI) extrapolation. Material and Methods: Vitreous humors were collected from the eyes of 50 dead bodies (28 males and 22 females) at the Federal Medical Center Yenagoa morgue employing Coe method. The vitreous was extracted, centrifuged and the resultant supernatant used for the biochemical analysis. The supernatants were analyzed for glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, urea and creatinine using WHO approved methods. Results: The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS. The results indicated that there was strong correlation (R-0.88) between vitreous potassium and PMI. Other parameter showed either weak or negligible correlation. The staged-three -hourly mean potassium showed a gradual increase using student t-test. Conclusion: Death within 15 hours can be extrapolated from potassium concentrations.