FSM 13: Immersion and Drowning

Clinical Deep Dives · Mar 7, 2026 · 1h 6m

Water is both life-sustaining and lethal. In forensic medicine, immersion deaths present complex interpretive challenges - particularly when distinguishing drowning from post-mortem disposal.

This episode explores the physiology and pathology of drowning and immersion. We examine how aspiration of fluid disrupts gas exchange, leading to hypoxia and death. Yet the external findings may be subtle.

We cover:

* The mechanisms of drowning.

* Freshwater versus saltwater considerations.

* Frothy fluid at the airways and its limitations.

* Overdistension of lungs and pulmonary changes.

* Gastric…