Forensic medicine – MCQ 43 – Colour of post mortem lividity (hypostasis)

Deep blue colour of hypostasis is seen in death due to poisoning by
A. Potassium cyanide
B. Phosphorus
C. Aniline dyes
D. Carbon monoxide

Correct answer : C. Aniline dyes

Colour of post mortem lividity (hypostasis)

• Normal – Bluish pink which later turns into bluish purple
• Carbon monoxide – Bright cherry red
• Cyanide – Pink
• Phosphorous – Dark brown
• Nitrates – Reddish brown
• Chlorates – Chocolate brown
• Hydrogen sulphide – Bluish Green
• Aniline – Deep blue
• Opiates – Black