Creation of an Experimental Animal Model for the Study of Postmortem Dark Scleral Spots

Nioi, Matteo

Conceptualization

;Napoli, Pietro Emanuele;Nieddu, Domenico;Chighine, Alberto;Fossarello, Maurizio;d'Aloja, Ernesto

2024-01-01

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Abstract

Postmortem dark scleral spots, first described by Sommer in 1833, are well-known in forensic pathology. Background/Objectives: Despite this, their presence is currently considered a nonspecific sign, and their pathogenesis has received little attention in forensic literature. In recent years, however, preliminary studies have suggested new mechanisms in their pathogenesis and links to specific types of death. This study aims to create an experimental model for studying scleral spots. Methods: Twenty sheep, already slaughtered for food, were used. After decapitation, the heads were transported to a room with known temperature and humidity. The right eye underwent eyelid excision, while the left eye’s eyelids were sutured. Continuous observation for approximately 24 h was conducted, with brief interruptions to observe the closed eyes. Results: Dark scleral spots appeared in all open eyes (20/20) after an average of 240.96 ± 58.36 min. The spots did not appear in any of the closed eyes. Conclusions: Experimental data indicate that despite the different location compared to human cadavers, this model serves as an excellent experimental framework for studying postmortem scleral spots.