Algor mortis
Algor Mortis
Algor mortis (pronounced: al-gor mor-tis) is a term used in Forensic Pathology to describe the post-mortem cooling of the human body. The term is derived from the Latin words 'algor' meaning cold and 'mortis' meaning of death.
Etymology
The term 'Algor mortis' is derived from Latin, where 'algor' means cold and 'mortis' means of death. Thus, it literally translates to 'the coldness of death'.
Definition
Algor mortis is the process that occurs after death in which the body cools down until it reaches the ambient temperature. This process begins immediately after death and can be influenced by factors such as the environment, clothing, and the cause of death.
Related Terms
- Rigor mortis: The stiffening of the body muscles after death.
- Livor mortis: The pooling of blood in the lower parts of the body after death.
- Post-mortem interval: The time elapsed since a person has died.
- Forensic Pathology: The study of determining cause of death, often in a legal context.
Factors affecting Algor Mortis
Several factors can affect the rate at which algor mortis occurs. These include:
- Body Mass: Larger bodies tend to cool slower than smaller ones.
- Clothing: Clothing can act as insulation, slowing the cooling process.
- Environment: The temperature and humidity of the surrounding environment can greatly affect the rate of cooling.
- Cause of Death: Certain causes of death can alter the body's temperature at the time of death, affecting the rate of cooling.
Use in Forensic Pathology
In Forensic Pathology, algor mortis is used to estimate the Post-mortem interval, or the time that has passed since death. By measuring the body's temperature and comparing it to the ambient temperature, an estimate of the time of death can be made.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Algor mortis
- Wikipedia's article - Algor mortis
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