Forensic Pathology for Police - Brainshare Public Online Library

Postmortem Chemistry Tests 573
than 15, the low levels of sodium and chloride are explained by decomposition. If
vitreous sodium and chloride levels are elevated, then this suggests the presence
of hypernatremic (high sodium) dehydration. If the vitreous sodium and chloride
levels are decreased (in the presence of “normal” postmortem potassium), then the
condition is referred to as a “low salt vitreous electrolyte pattern,” which can be the
sole explanation for a death related to electrolyte disturbances. It most frequently
occurs in chronic alcoholics. Table 21.2 provides a synopsis of normal and abnormal
“vitreous electrolyte patterns.”
Sodium
(mEq/L)
Table 21.2 Vitreous electrolyte patterns
Chloride
(mEq/L)
Potassium
(mEq/L)
Urea
(mg/dL)
Glucose
(mg/dL)
Normal 130–155 105–135