Image Specification: Cadaveric Spasm Image Type: Clinical/Forensic Photograph Subject: Deceased Human Hand Pathological Finding: Cadaveric Spasm (also known as instantaneous rigor mortis) Characteristic Features: Sustained, forceful contraction of muscles, in this case, the flexor muscles of the fingers and wrist. Gripping of an object (implied, or the hand is in a grasping posture). Absence of a period of muscle flaccidity normally preceding rigor mortis. Presence of external matter (dirt/debris/blood) on the hand, which can be significant in forensic analysis. Forensic Significance: Strong indicator of a violent death or an intensely emotional/physical struggle immediately prior to death. Suggests the deceased may have been clutching an object at the moment of death, which can be crucial evidence (e.g., weapon, hair, fiber, soil). Helps determine the circumstances surrounding the death. Context: Typically observed in cases of drowning, suicide, or other deaths involving extreme stress or exertion at the moment of demise.