Decomposition occurs in several stages, including autolysis, bloat, active decay, and skeletonization. Understanding these stages can help pediatricians, especially those involved in forensic cases or infection control:
Autolysis: This is the self-digestion process where cells break down due to enzymes and chemicals within the body. Bloat: Gases produced by bacteria cause the body to swell, and fluids start to leak from orifices. Active Decay: Tissues break down further, and the body loses much of its mass. This stage is significant in the study of infectious disease as it involves the activity of bacteria. Skeletonization: The final stage where only bones and other hard tissues remain.
