Postmortem changes: putrefaction: practice question

A Forensic Medicine question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Forensic Medicine · Postmortem changes: putrefaction

Sample item

Which early feature is classically associated with putrefaction?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Green discoloration over the right iliac fossa

Early putrefactive discoloration often begins over the right iliac fossa because of bacteria-rich caecal contents. Environmental conditions greatly alter the rate of change.

Option by option

  • A. Complete skeletonization

    Skeletonization is a late outcome of decomposition.

  • B. Green discoloration over the right iliac fossa (correct)

    Correct. This is the classic early external site.

  • C. Immediate mummification

    Mummification requires prolonged dry conditions.

  • D. Fixed rigor in every muscle

    Rigor mortis occurs earlier and later passes.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Forensic Medicine question

What is the answer to this Forensic Medicine question?

The best answer is B, Green discoloration over the right iliac fossa. Early putrefactive discoloration often begins over the right iliac fossa because of bacteria-rich caecal contents.

Why is "Complete skeletonization" not the answer?

Skeletonization is a late outcome of decomposition.

Why is "Immediate mummification" not the answer?

Mummification requires prolonged dry conditions.

Why is "Fixed rigor in every muscle" not the answer?

Rigor mortis occurs earlier and later passes.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Postmortem changes: putrefaction in Forensic Medicine. Environmental conditions greatly alter the rate of change.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Postmortem changes: putrefaction?

Learn postmortem changes with their timelines, and toxicology as poison, sign, test and antidote. Then use the flashcards and the other Forensic Medicine questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.