Which change typically occurs first postmortem?

• A. Algor mortis
• B. Rigor mortis
• C. Decomposition
• D. Livor mortis

Answer: (A)

In the context of postmortem changes, algor mortis is the initial cooling of the body after death, and it typically occurs first. After death, the body ceases to generate heat, and as a result, it starts to cool down to match the ambient temperature. The rate of cooling can be influenced by several factors, including the environment, clothing, body composition, and the presence of any medical conditions.

Understanding algor mortis is crucial in forensic science and mortuary practices, as it can help establish the time of death, which is an important aspect in various legal contexts. The subsequent processes, such as rigor mortis (the stiffening of muscles), livor mortis (the settling of blood), and decomposition, occur at later stages and are influenced by different mechanisms in the body. Hence, algor mortis is recognized as the first significant change that takes place after death.