Forensic Medicine · Autopsy & Examination of the Dead

Pyrogallol Test for Pneumothorax

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Principle

Pyrogallol absorbs oxygen in the presence of alkali. The test demonstrates the presence or absence of oxygen.

Procedure

  1. Pyrogallol solution is mixed with sodium hydroxide (alkali).
  2. The mixture is exposed to the gas sample.
  3. If oxygen is present, pyrogallol absorbs oxygen and turns brown.

Medicolegal Use — Detection of Pneumothorax

Used during autopsy to determine whether air is present in the pleural cavity.

Method in pneumothorax:

  1. The thoracic cavity is opened under water.
  2. Escaping gas is collected.
  3. Gas is exposed to alkaline pyrogallol solution.
  4. Absorption of oxygen indicates atmospheric air.