Electric entry mark in a decomposed body

Background: The electric traps using a live non-insulated cable, one end of which is connected to domestic utility bare line is used to hunt animals in several geographical areas in Sri Lanka. In some instances the humans fatalities are also reported. The alteration of the scene by the trappers and the frequent late recovery of the bodies challenge the Forensic Pathologist in determination the cause of death.

 

Case description: A moderately decomposed body with discolouration, desquamation and maggot infestation which was recovered from a jungle was brought for medico legal investigation. There was a greyish white oval shape mark with central black area on the right leg. The mark on the right leg showed macroscopic features of an electric entry mark. The mark was still identifiable with the naked eye. The characteristic histology features were observed on the sections obtained from the mark.

 

Conclusion: The electric entry mark is demonstrable in decomposed bodies and a meticulous external examination is helpful to identify the suspected lesions. The histology findings are resistant for decomposition and helpful to confirm the diagnosis of electrocution.