Medical Jurisprudence And Toxicology

DROWNING

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be found semi-erect, and the retraction and contraction of the genital organs
may be encountered, if the body is thrown into water after death The
reverse condition of the genitals is usually found, if the body is taken out
early, and if water is not cold; hence in a tropical country like India no
reliance can be placed on this sign.

Fig. 58.—Drowning: Froth, at the nostrils coming
out on compressing the chest

<f Gra^s^gravel, sticks, weeds, twigs or leaves may be found firmly grasped
in the hands as the result of cadaveric spasm. The presence of this sign
is indicative of death from drowning as it shows the struggle of the victim
for his life. Mud or sand may be found under the finger-nails, and abrasions
may sometimes be found on the fingers and toes.

Fig. 59.—Opium Poisoning: Froth at the nostrils.

On or about the 9th March 1926, a Hindu male, aged 60 years, was fatnxd
with shoes firmly grasped in his hands in the Kokrel Nala at Lucknow. Ifc a
ae tried to ford the Nala with the shoes in his hands, but was drowned om
deeper water. Post-mortem examination revealed the presence of water 'fe '
stomach and duodenum. The lungs were found "bulky, oedematous and
on section frothy liquid blood pocked out