Which process is associated with a green coloration in the abdomen, skin sloughing, and gas formation?

Which process is associated with a green coloration in the abdomen, skin sloughing, and gas formation?

• A. Autolysis
• B. Oxidation
• C. Hydration
• D. Putrefaction

Answer: (D)

Putrefaction is the bacterial decomposition after death. The green coloration of the abdomen comes from hydrogen sulfide produced by anaerobic bacteria reacting with iron in hemoglobin to form ferrous sulfide. Skin sloughing occurs as tissues progressively break down under bacterial action, and gas formation results from gas-producing bacteria, causing distension and a foul odor. Autolysis is the body's own enzymatic self-digestion and typically doesn’t produce the same green coloration or gas pockets; hydration isn’t a decomposition process, and oxidation causes color changes from exposure to air but doesn’t explain this combination of signs.

Putrefaction is the bacterial decomposition after death. The green coloration of the abdomen comes from hydrogen sulfide produced by anaerobic bacteria reacting with iron in hemoglobin to form ferrous sulfide. Skin sloughing occurs as tissues progressively break down under bacterial action, and gas formation results from gas-producing bacteria, causing distension and a foul odor. Autolysis is the body's own enzymatic self-digestion and typically doesn’t produce the same green coloration or gas pockets; hydration isn’t a decomposition process, and oxidation causes color changes from exposure to air but doesn’t explain this combination of signs.