Estimation of post-mortem interval of dismembered bodies: A scoping-narrative review

Abstract

Background: Estimation of the post-mortem interval (PMI) in dismembered bodies presents forensic challenges because dismemberment disrupts decomposition, exposes internal tissues, and causes body segments to experience varying environmental conditions. This review assessed approaches to PMI estimation in dismembered remains and identified gaps. Methods: A literature search was conducted in May 2024 using Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Library. Searches used combinations of post-mortem interval, dismemberment, decapitation, total body score, accumulated degree days, and bodies. Eligible studies addressing PMI estimation in dismembered or decapitated remains were screened by authors. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively because of heterogeneity among the included studies. Results: Twenty-three articles were identified; seven duplicates were removed, and six studies met the eligibility criteria. The included studies, published between 1995 and 2024, employed biochemical markers, protein degradation analysis, entomological evidence, radiological imaging, accumulated degree days (ADD), and decomposition scoring systems. Findings showed that wrapping and encasement altered decomposition and delayed insect activity, while protein degradation and biochemical markers demonstrated potential for estimating PMI. ADD and decomposition scoring provided approaches for assessing decomposition. However, most studies relied on animal proxies, small sample sizes, or controlled environmental conditions, limiting generalizability to human forensic cases. Conclusions: PMI estimation in dismembered remains is supported by multidisciplinary approaches combining biochemical, entomological, radiological, and decomposition-based methods. Nevertheless, variable exposure, containment, environmental conditions, interspecies differences, and limited validation remain challenges. Larger studies under diverse environmental conditions and validation using human remains are needed to improve accuracy and forensic applicability of PMI estimation.