If there is a delay of 12 to 24 hours after death before necropsy, what is the best approach to preserve the carcass?

• A. Keep the carcass at room temperature but protect it from insects and other animals
• B. Refrigerate the carcass to prevent rapid decomposition
• C. Place the carcass in the freezer to prevent decomposition
• D. Place the carcass in formalin to preserve the tissues

Answer: (B)

Temperature control is essential to slowing decomposition after death when a necropsy is delayed. Refrigerating the carcass at about 4°C slows bacterial growth and enzymatic autolysis, helping preserve both the gross anatomy and tissue integrity for later examination and histology. Leaving the body at room temperature would allow rapid decay, compromising findings. Freezing isn’t ideal for a short delay like 12–24 hours because ice crystals can damage tissues and complicate subsequent processing, though it can be used for longer storage. Placing the carcass in formalin isn’t practical for delaying necropsy because a whole animal fixes slowly and unevenly, poses safety concerns, and can alter tissue characteristics before examination.