The detection, identification and measurement of indole, tryptamine and 2-phenethylamine in putrefying human tissue.

Indole, tryptamine and 2-phenethylamine are putrefactive products which may be found in decaying human tissue. They may be identified by the data given found in decaying human tissue. They may be identified by the data given for infrared and ultraviolet spectrometry, fluorometry, thin layer and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Quantitative studies may be made using the gas chromatography method described. The rate of formation is affected by temperature and preservatives and may be prevented if necessary by the use of sodium fluoride. No relationship between the production of these materials (and alcohol) and time since the post-mortem examination could be established. The post-mortem examinations took place within 24 hours of death.