Estimation of the minimum post-mortem interval (PMI-min) by means of forensic entomology is mainly based on the results of the growth rate studies on necrophagous flies. However, results of these studies are difficult to use because these studies have only been undertaken for a select few necrophagous flies, and experimental methods and results processing have not been standardized. In this review, we have summarized the current state of growth rate studies on necrophagous fly species that are frequently found in human cadavers. Criteria have been suggested in order to select reliable data, and the accumulated degree hours and base temperatures to be used in the calculation of PMI-min for each species have been tabulated.

Ludwig’s angina is a rapidly progressive and gangrenous cellulitis in the submandibular, sublingual spaces, and neck. It is characterized by an elevated tongue and laryngeal edema, resulting in airway compromise and, rarely, in sudden death. The most common cause is an odontogenic infection of a molar tooth. Infection can spread to the superior mediastinum and buccal area through anatomical structures. Herein, we report the sudden death of a 45-year-old male who was not diagnosed with Ludwig’s angina. He died in the emergency room 20 minutes after loss of consciousness. Intubation was impossible owing to severe laryngeal edema. The C-reactive protein level was 33.81 mg/dL. On autopsy, a diffuse light green abscess of the submandibular space was detected, along with severe edema of the epiglottis, aryepiglottic fold, and vocal cords. Subsequently, we confirmed that the airway obstruction was caused by Ludwig’s angina based on a literature review. In conclusion, this report emphasizes the need to identify the infection source and perform a detailed dissection according to the anatomical structure in the autopsy procedure for Ludwig’s angina.

Mucinous borderline tumors (MBT) of the ovary with mild to moderately atypical epithelial cells that produce mucin rarely recur and very rarely become malignant after surgery. Due to their low malignant potential and large tumor size, most cases are diagnosed in stage I and have a good prognosis. The authors reported a case of MBT, which had been left untreated after diagnosis, progressed to stage IV, and caused massive pleural effusion (>3,000 mL) resulting in death. Grossly, severe abdominal swelling, a huge multiloculated cystic mass in the left ovary, and a metastatic mucinous mass in the pleura and peritoneum were observed. Histological findings include gastrointestinal type epithelial cells with mucin secretion, degenerative and autolytic nuclei, and occasional infiltration of inflammatory cells. Because sufficient sections cannot be made according to the clinical pathology criteria in forensic autopsy, efficient decisions are required during autopsy for diagnosis.

Black larder beetles prefer to feed on decomposing animal bodies, particularly those that are dried. When conditions are dry and warm, these beetles often appear in large numbers on dried animal carcasses. In our case, the dried carcasses of several cats were found nearly skeletonized at a villa in Daegu Metropolitan City on July 13, 2022. There were very few empty pupae of Lucilia sericata (Meigen) in the villa, but many adult black larder beetles, larvae, and larval cast skin (exuviae) (<i>Dermestes haemorrhoidalis</i> Küster) belonging to the family of larder beetles (Dermestidae) were found. We estimated the minimum post-mortem interval to be 44.5 days using temperature data from the nearest meteorological observatory and reported animal carcass decomposition and Dermestidae developmental rates. Police investigation confirmed that the cats were alive at least 3 months ago. Consequently, the neglected cats could not have been deceased in the villa for more than 3 months. As a result, the estimate closely matched the statement from the suspect.

Congenital absence of the pericardium, also known as pericardial agenesis, is an extremely rare anomaly. Although most cases are asymptomatic, some experience chest pain, dyspnea, dizziness, and syncope. A few sudden death cases have been reported. We report a case of congenital complete left-sided absence of the pericardium that is not related to the cause of death. In the autopsy of a skinny 45-year-old deceased man, there was no left pericardium, and the heart had direct contact with the left lung. Inflammation and adhesion around the heart, torsion of great vessels, structure abnormality of the heart, and histologic lesion of the myocardium were absent. Due to the chemical analysis result and morphology, we suspected that the cause of death was related to starvation. The congenital absence of the pericardium is usually accompanied by myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, and variable congenital anomalies in the heart and other organs. Additionally, both complete and partial defects can cause myocardial infarction. Therefore, we suggest that precise gross examination should be performed to determine the ischemic lesions in the heart and other anomalies if congenital absence of the pericardium is noted in the autopsy.