Which of the following is related to instant muscle contraction following death?
Ans: d (Cadaveric rigidity) Ref: Reddy, 21st ed, p. 134Cadaveric rigidity or cadaveric spasm occurs immediately after death .In this, the muscles that were contracted during life become stiff and rigid without passing into the stage of primary relaxation.Difference between rigor mortis and cadaveric spasm RIGOR MORTISCADAVERIC SPASMTime of onsetOne or two hours after deathAll muscles of the body involved, both voluntary and involuntaryInstantaneousUsually restricted to a single group of voluntary muscles Moderate force can overcome the stiffnessVery great force is required to overcome itBody temperatureLow (cold)Indicates time since deathWarmIndicates mode of death i.e., suicide or homicide
Heat stiffening
Cold stiffening
Burns
Cadaveric rigidity
Death and Medicolegal Aspects