Forensic entomology for estimation of post-mortem interval (PMI): integrative review

The behavior of insects on the corpse, as well as colonizing species, can cause dismemberment, burial, exposure of body parts and even the generation of artifacts. This study aimed to show the need for forensic entomology as a criminal tool, highlighting its investigative importance for determining the cause of death and mainly evaluating the estimated time elapsed between the date of death and the finding of the body. This is an integrative literature review, of the descriptive-exploratory type, regarding the use of forensic entomology as a tool to determine the Post-Mortem Interval (PMI). Essential parameters were observed so that the maximum and minimum time could be determined when it comes to the analysis of the life stage of insects and arthropods found under the body. Among the research, it was possible to verify that several factors can alter the colonization of insects, such as where the body is located, climatic aspects and its regional location, in addition there are artifacts left by the insects themselves that, if not properly analyzed, can lead to erroneous hypotheses.