Value of bacteriologic studies within the scope of forensic autopsies

The various questions regarding bacteriological investigations within the scope of forensic autopsies are discussed in the light of our own cases and with regard to the relevant literature: estimate of the age of the corpse on the basis of decomposition changes caused by bacteria; determination of so-called bacteriograms from the point of view of criminalistics; supplementary investigations of the cause of death. Iatrogenic infections (e.g., gangrene) are gone into in more detail, as is so-called infantile botulism within the scope of the "sudden infant death syndrome". Finally, it is pointed out that when doing forensic autopsies, thought should also be given to illnesses that have only been known for a few years, examples being legionnaires' disease and the toxic shock syndrome ("tampon sickness").