A review of the estimation of postmortem interval using forensic entomology.

The postmortem interval (PMI) is a crucial factor in death investigations. For PMIs exceeding 24 h the forensic pathologist must turn to other specialties that focus on decompositional ecology of animals, including humans. Primary among these specialties is forensic entomology. Here, we review the importance of forensic entomology in estimating the PMI, and we examine the factors that influence these estimates. Among key concerns are environmental factors, especially temperature, and aspects of insect biology. Additionally, we examine current methods used for calculating PMI based on insects and their development.

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.