[On the evidential value of diatoms in cases of death by drowning (author's transl)].

With the aid of experiments in animals we have again investigated the question as to the quantitative and qualitative immigration of diatoms into the greater circulation and thus into the bone marrow at the time of drowning. We have applied an experimental method which meets this complex topic. Thus, just before the animals (rabbits) were drowned, one of their hind legs was amputated, and the vessels of one of their kidneys were clamped to learn how many diatoms were present before the drowning. After the drowning, a qualitative and quantitative examination of the bone marrow of both hind legs and of both kidneys was carried out. In all cases, an increase in the number of diatoms could be recorded as compared to the initial number of diatoms present prior to the drowning. Based on the results of the experiments and the information gained in the examinations criteria are discussed which, when applied, allow positive diatom findings to indicate valuable diagnostic information about death by drowning. References is made to preservation of the death causing liquid in the stomach.