On the forensic medical significance of cadaveric imbibition around subcutaneous veins in cases of death from general hypothermia

This study focuses on an important aspect of forensic medical diagnostics: the identification and interpretation of tissue discoloration around subcutaneous veins that occurs during general hypothermia. We delve into the morphological manifestations of this phenomenon, its mechanisms of development, and its role in differential diagnosis. We particularly emphasize how this feature helps to establish the fact and extent of low-temperature exposure on the body, as well as to rule out other possible causes of death. Drawing on the analysis of scientific literature and our own practical experience, we assess the reliability and boundaries of applicability of this diagnostic criterion. The main objective of our work is to comprehensively analyze the forensic significance of this staining in cases of death from hypothermia, determine its informational value, and its place in the complex of diagnostic methods.