What are Tardieu spots?
Tardieu spots, also known as petechiae Tardieu or Tardieu's points, are small, red or purple spots that can appear on the skin after death. These spots are caused by the accumulation of blood in the small blood vessels under the skin, which occurs as a result of gravity and the pooling of blood in the lowest parts of the body.
Tardieu spots are often used as a forensic indicator to estimate the time of death, as their presence and distribution on the body can provide clues about how long a person has been deceased. However, it is important to note that other factors, such as medical conditions and injuries, can also affect the development and distribution of Tardieu spots. Therefore, their presence or absence should be interpreted in conjunction with other evidence and forensic analysis.
Tardieu Spots Definition

Tardieu Spots Location
Tardieu Spots Causes
Tardieu Spots vs Petechiae
Tardieu spots and petechiae are similar in appearance, as they both present as small, reddish-purple spots on the skin. However, they have different underlying causes and can appear in different contexts.
Tardieu spots are a postmortem phenomenon that occurs due to the accumulation of blood in the small blood vessels under the skin after death. The pressure of the accumulating blood causes the vessels to rupture, leading to the formation of small reddish-purple spots on the skin. Tardieu spots are commonly used as a forensic indicator to estimate the time of death.
Petechiae, on the other hand, are caused by the rupture of small blood vessels under the skin due to increased pressure or trauma. Petechiae can occur in various medical conditions, including bleeding disorders, infections, and certain medications. Petechiae can also occur in non-medical contexts, such as in cases of strangulation, where pressure on the neck can cause the rupture of blood vessels and the appearance of petechiae.