Twenty days after death, the body undergoes significant decomposition processes. Several changes occur during this time, largely due to the action of bacteria, insects, and environmental factors. Here's an overview of the main stages of decomposition that typically occur by this time:
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Autolysis: After death, the body's cells begin to break down through autolysis, where enzymes within the cells start to digest cellular components. This process can begin within a few hours after death.
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Putrefaction: By around 3-5 days post-mortem, putrefaction, which is the breakdown of tissues by bacteria, starts to progress significantly. This phase is characterized by a buildup of gases such as methane, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia, leading to bloating.
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Bloating and Skin Changes: The skin may appear greenish or yellowish due to the production of gases and the breakdown of blood. Blistering may occur, and the body may develop a noticeable odor as tissues break down further.
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Insect Activity: By approximately 7-10 days, various insects, particularly blowflies and beetles, may be attracted to the body, laying eggs that hatch into maggots. These larvae contribute to the decomposition process by consuming tissues and accelerating decay.
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Tissue Breakdown: As the days progress, the soft tissues of the body continue to decompose. Muscle tissue will become more liquefied, and internal organs will start to disintegrate.
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Skeletonization: While extensive skeletalization typically occurs over a longer period (often weeks to months, depending on environmental conditions), soft tissues may have begun to deteriorate significantly by 20 days, exposing bones partially.
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Environment Influence: Factors like temperature, humidity, pests, and the location of the body (buried, submerged, exposed) play crucial roles in the rate and nature of decomposition.
By 20 days post-mortem, if conditions are favorable (warm temperatures, high humidity), extensive decomposition will have occurred, and the body may be in an advanced state of decay. The visible effects will depend largely on the environment and the presence of scavengers and insects.