Blood pH as Indicator of Time since Death - A Postmortem Study

Time since death is one of the most important factors connected with the investigation of a case. Determination of the TSD (time since death) is one of the primary goals of medico-legal autopsies. Hospital records, witness statements, police - investigation reports, and other sources of information can all aid in determining the time of death, but it can be difficult to predict when such data is unavailable, particularly in cases of unwitnessed death. Estimating the time since death with blood pH is one solution which is critical in guiding law enforcement in establishing a timeline, determining the location of the victim’s final action, and excluding or narrowing down the number of suspects involved.

The study shows a highly significant negative correlation between time and the person’s pH score. From the statistical analysis and from the graph, it is evident that there is a substantial decrease in the blood pH levels with the rise in the time since death.

The study comprised 20 cases brought to the hospital. Blood was analysed for pH levels using a meter. Results have been presented in comparison to findings obtained in other studies done on dead individuals. In this study, it is found that there is a highly significant negative correlation between time and the person’s pH score. So, it can be used as a tool to estimate time of death such as from the crime scene as well as from the corpse which can be a valuable investigating tool.