Mummified Dead Body in Hanging Position: A Case Report

Abstract

Mummification refers to all-natural and artificial processes that bring about the preservation of the body or its parts. Such processes include mainly the drying of the soft tissues instead of liquefying putrefaction. We are presenting here a case of a medicolegal autopsy performed at the mortuary of MGIMS, Sevagram.  The body was found in the jungle in a hanging position to the branch of a tree. Body was completely mummified. Facial identification could be made out as facial features were well maintained. Investigation agency has query regarding condition of the body (mummification) and what is the time since death. After performing the autopsy, police were explained regarding the factors responsible for mummification to occur in the dead body and also given opinion regarding time since death. From the time since death police investigated the various missing complaints which were present at neighboring police stations during that period. So the relatives from one of the missing person identified the body and it was handed over to relative after completion of all legal formalities by the police officials.  In this case report we have discussed; autopsy finding in mummified body and factors responsible for formation mummification of the body.  Hot, dry and airy environment are well known factors contributing the mummification of body but apart from this hanging of the body along with other contributing factors mentioned earlier is responsible for mummification of the body in present case.