Scoping Review on the Estimation of the Postmortem Interval.: Methodological Challenges, Validation, and the Future of Evidence-Based Practice (2020–2025).

Abstract

Postmortem interval (PMI) estimation is fundamental to forensic science but methodologically challenging. Early PMI (first 72 hours) relies on traditional thanatological signs, while late PMI employs diverse, often conflicting techniques. Decomposition-based models, particularly the Total Body Score/Accumulated Degree-Day (TBS/ADD) method, have dominated forensic anthropology but face scrutiny regarding universal validity and statistical robustness, prompting shifts toward regionally-adapted models and biochemical/molecular approaches.

This scoping review maps scientific literature from 2020-2025, providing a comprehensive overview of current PMI estimation methods. It examines validation and critique of macromorphoscopic decomposition scoring while contextualizing emerging techniques informed by recent systematic reviews.

Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) were systematically searched for January 2020-December 2025 publications. The search targeted PMI estimation studies, including decomposition scoring, validation studies, and novel methodologies. Data were charted to identify methodological approaches, applicability, limitations, and findings regarding accuracy and reliability.

Results confirm a paradigm shift. Literature from 2020-2025 demonstrates overwhelming evidence against universal applicability of the TBS-ADD model, with validation studies consistently showing failure across diverse biogeoclimatic zones. Fundamental statistical flaws in error calculation challenge two decades of research. Concurrently, alternative methods are emerging: thanatomicrobiome succession, proteomic/metabolomic profiling, RNA degradation analysis, and advanced imaging. Critical consensus indicates no single method is universally reliable, with absent quantified error rates representing a fundamental barrier.

Generalized decomposition models are no longer tenable. The discipline's future requires multi-method, integrative approaches combining regionally-validated macromorphoscopic observations with quantitative biomarker analysis, demanding standardized protocols, collaborative data infrastructure, and established error rates meeting modern forensic standards.

Keywords

Intervalo Pós-Morte
Tafonomia
Decomposição
Antropologia Forense
IPM Tardio
Postmortem Interval
Taphonomy
Decomposition
Forensic Anthropology
Late PMI
Intervalo Postmortem
Tafonomía
Descomposición
Antropología Forense
IPM Tardío

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