Forensic Medicine · Asphyxial Deaths

Drowning: Emphysema vs Edema Aquosum & Postmortem Immersion

3 min read · Verified by professors

Classification of Autopsy Findings in Drowning

  1. External findings
    • Specific (antemortem)
    • Non-specific
  2. Internal findings
    • Antemortem conscious drowning → Emphysema aquosum
    • Antemortem unconscious drowning → Edema aquosum
    • Postmortem immersion → immersion changes only

External Findings

Specific (Antemortem)

  • Fine froth — White, fine, lathery froth at mouth and nostrils; persistent and copious; reappears after wiping.
  • Cadaveric spasm — Weeds, grass, mud or sand tightly grasped in hand.
  • Cutis anserina (goose skin) — Contraction of erector pili muscles; skin resembles goose flesh.

Non-Specific