What does “livor mortis” refer to in autopsy and postmortem examination?
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Correct answer: Gravitational pooling of blood
Livor mortis (postmortem lividity) is the gravitational settling of blood in the dependent parts of the body after circulation stops, producing a characteristic skin discoloration.
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More Autopsy and Gross Pathology questions
- Rigor mortis occurs because of which fundamental biochemical change in muscle cells after death?
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- Which type of autopsy is particularly indicated when death is suspicious, sudden, or potentially involves criminal activity?
- During gross pathology examination, which finding suggests a malignancy rather than a benign lesion?
- Which documentation becomes part of the deceased’s medical record following an autopsy in a hospital setting?
- Which of the following is NOT typically part of the gross pathology (grossing) process of a resected specimen?