After death, Livor mois is caused because of: March 2008

Ans. C: Discolouration as a result of capillo-venous distension in the dependent pas of the body Postmoem lividity/hypostasis/livor mois is a settling of the blood in the lower (dependent) poion of the body, causing a purplish red discoloration of the skin: when the hea is no longer agitating the blood, heavy red blood cells sink through the serum by action of gravity. This discoloration does not occur in the areas of the body that are in contact with the ground or another object, as the capillaries are compressed. Livor mois is usually well developed within 4 hours after death and maximum lividity occurs within 6-12 hours.