Offers an overview of forensic pathology to those who wish to know the basics but lack formal forensic training. This title explains from who the experts are in death investigation and what their roles are, to how effective testimonies are presented in court. It includes a section on the importance of forensic DNA testing.

This handbook for death scene investigators provides concise information in a pocket-sized format for on-the-scene reference. It emphasizes details about sudden natural deaths by disease and accidents, complemented with practical information on: reviewing a medical chart; collecting evidence; obtaining a medical history; and interacting with other law enforcement personnel, witnesses, and relatives. There are appendices on medical terms, lists of prescription drugs, and photographs showing examples of death and decomposition.

A postmortem X-ray of a male homicide victim reveals a bullet lodged next to his spine. That he was shot is clear. How recently? is what death investigators must determine. The answer: the absence of scar tissue surrounding the bullet proves the victim had been recently shot.

And while the average person may find tattoos to be creative and aesthetic, to the trained death investigator, they can actually be the key to aiding in the eventual identification of a body.

They say the dead can't speak. But in the fascinating field of forensic pathology, the deceased can tell an elaborate...

This third volume in the Forensic Pathology Atlases: Causes of Death Series provides an overview of the types, mechanisms, and physical findings associated with deaths involving asphyxia. Asphyxia and Drowning serves as a basic framework for an extensive pictorial representation of findings associated with these types of deaths. It helps the reader to gain a better understanding of the processes leading to asphyxiation, to recognize the associated physical findings, and better appreciate the difficulties in evaluating asphyxiation deaths.