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Changes Over Time
In a specimen that has been dead for some time there are a number of changes that occur with respect to the gross appearance of organs and tissues. These changes are related to the autolysis of tissues following death and the degree of change is an indication of the increased rate of autolysis that occurs in different tissues. The intestinal organs are the one of the most rapidly autolysing tissues and because of their relatively large volume in the abdominal cavity, they tend to alter the appearance of the trunk quite rapidly. However the limbs which are composed largely of muscle autolyse more slowly and retain a more normal appearance for longer. Changes in the carcase condition due to autolytic processes include bloating of the abdominal cavity due to the production of gas in the intestines by fermentative bacteria, a dull appearance to the tissue surfaces when skinned, and discolouration of the abdominal wall due to the absorbance of pigments from the abdominal organs (imbibition).
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Veterinary Pathology - Autolysis