Histological Dataset on the Effects of Flunitrazepam on Liver Decomposition for Postmortem Interval Estimation

This study investigated the effect of flunitrazepam on liver decomposition to improve postmortem interval (PMI) estimation in forensic cases. The hypothesis was that flunitrazepam delays decomposition by inhibiting enzymatic autolysis, affecting PMI determination. The dataset consists of histological images of liver tissue samples collected daily over 16 days from two pigs (Sus Scrofa L.): one control and one experimental (administered 2 mg flunitrazepam in 250 ml vodka). Samples were excised from the caudal lobe, preserved in 10% neutral buffered formalin, and processed using standard histological techniques, including hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome staining.

The images document key decomposition stages, showing structural changes such as nuclear degradation (pyknosis, karyorrhexis, and karyolysis), loss of sinusoidal integrity, hepatocyte disintegration, hemorrhage, and bacterial colonization. Notable findings indicate that flunitrazepam significantly slowed decomposition in the experimental group during the first six days, with more preserved cellular integrity compared to the control. By day seven, decomposition rates between the two groups became comparable, and by day 16, both exhibited complete structural disintegration.

This dataset provides valuable forensic insights into drug-induced alterations in PMI estimation. Researchers can analyze the images to assess histopathological changes in liver decomposition, compare treated and untreated tissue degradation patterns, and refine forensic methodologies. The dataset can be used to train forensic investigators in recognizing drug-influenced decomposition markers or for machine-learning applications in PMI prediction. Proper interpretation requires familiarity with histopathology, tissue staining techniques, and forensic pathology.