Distinguishing burns inflicted before death (antemortem) from those occurring after death (postmortem) is a central medicolegal task — vital reactions are present only in life.
Specific (Vital) Findings — Antemortem Burns
These indicate the victim was alive when exposed to fire.
Line of Redness
- Red inflammatory zone surrounding the burn.
- Produced by vascular reaction.
- Indicates vital reaction.
True Vesication (Vital Blisters)
- Blisters contain protein-rich fluid.
- Fluid contains albumin and chlorides.
- Base is red, inflamed and congested.
Soot in Respiratory Tract
- Soot particles present in nose, larynx, trachea and bronchi.
- Significance: indicates breathing during the fire.