Histological Aging of Bruising: A Historical and Ongoing Challenge

Abstract

Dating of bruises can be of great importance in forensic pathology. Such dating can be performed by both naked eye appearance and by using microscopic techniques. This paper reviews the literature on histological dating of bruising. Microscopic techniques have used standard histologic stains including hematoxylin and eosin and Prussian blue for iron; more recently, studies have employed immunohistochemistry. Biochemical techniques have also been used in an attempt to date bruises. These data have provided estimation of the age of bruises, without being able to give precise determinations. Findings that have been used to age bruises and factors that affect the aging of bruises are reviewed. Dating of bruising by laboratory techniques can only provide a range of time. Biological variation may prevent more accurate dating, despite newer techniques being used. Histological examination of bruises does have added value, but must be interpreted appropriately.