What poison is typically detected in an exhumed body?

Arsenic is typically detected in an exhumed body due to its chemical properties and the way it interacts with human tissues. Arsenic is a heavy metal that does not readily break down in the environment, which allows it to persist over long periods, making it especially relevant in forensic investigations involving exhumed remains. When a body is exhumed, the tissues can still contain arsenic even years after its administration, allowing forensic toxicologists to identify it.

In contrast, while other poisons like strychnine, mercury, and cyanide may also be found in human remains, arsenic is more notable for being detectable after an extended duration, often associated with historical or chronic exposure. The accumulation of arsenic in the body, particularly in hair and nails, provides a clear forensic marker. Strychnine, for example, is rapidly metabolized and may not be detectable after a certain period, while mercury can vary in its detectability based on the form and location of the sample. Cyanide typically has a very short half-life and is less likely to be detected in preserved tissues an extended time after death.