Pallor Mortis

By Crusader1307

The ''first'' stage in what is known as physical, Clinical Death - ''Pallor Mortis'' (from the Latin as ''Paleness'' (Color) of Death), while evident - is seldom used as an accurate determination of ''time of passing''. Several factors create such difficulties. Generally, in Caucasian or ''Light Colored'' Persons, the sudden stopage of The Heart (ie - circulatory system), also ceases the ''flow'' of blood. The thousands of capillaries which are present under the Epidermis - ''skin'', are no longer receiving oxygenated blood. As such, the ''healthy glow'' (or pinkness, if you will) - is no longer present. A pale, chalky white ''Pallor'' or appearence, presents. This effect is timed from ''immediate'' Death to within 30-minutes after.

The previously mentioned ''problem'' with accuracy in timing Death, arises from any immediate Trauma or Shock to The Body. Gunshots or extreme traumatic injuries (such as amputations - eg Car Accidents), can cause an immediate loss of capillary blood to the epidermis (even if the person is still in essence, alive). Hence, as stated - ''Pallor Mortis'' is not a reliable marker, but is still included in the traditional (8) Stages of Organic Death.