Type:
Educational Exhibit
Keywords:
Forensic / Necropsy studies, CT, Education, Forensics
Authors:
D. Stephens, M. Nasreddine
DOI:
10.26044/ranzcr2022/R-0097
Conclusion
PMCT findings can be helpful in supporting a diagnosis of drowning, and the typical findings have been described. Of these, fluid in the paranasal sinuses is the most sensitive, while the most specific finding is the presence of sediment in the paranasal sinuses, airways, lungs and stomach.
It is important to be aware of limitations in interpretation, as there is overlap in the PMCT findings in drowning with other pathological processes, and with changes secondary to immersion, resuscitation and decomposition. Appropriate training and awareness of PMCT features of normal post-mortem changes is necessary.