Autopsy problems associated with postmortem ant activity

Abstract

Postmortem damage to skin caused by ants may result in lesions that resemble inflicted or noninflicted antemortem injuries. In addition, if this superficial skin loss is located in a dependent area, there may be considerable passive postmortem seepage of blood. Three cases are described where such lesions caused concerns regarding the possibility of inflicted or accidental injury. These cases demonstrate that extensive skin loss and considerable hemorrhage may result from ant predation after death mimicking antemortem injury. This is particularly so in bodies that have been left outdoors, but it may also occur in bodies lying indoors. Problems may arise if ants have been removed or lost prior to postmortem assessment.