ABSTRACT
Another segment of our bloodstain taxonomy is the important category of altered bloodstains (Figure 9.1). Actually, any bloodstain or pattern may be subject to an alteration. There are many instances where exposed blood can become altered from its original appearance as a result of physical or physiologic changes that occur. Alterations in the appearance of blood can also occur within the body in the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, and when expelled, exhibit distinct color changes as a result of disease processes. Environmental conditions may subject the blood and bloodstains to a variety of
changes. These include diffusion; drying and flaking; dilution resulting from moisture; decomposition; and various types of insect, animal, bacterial, and fungal activities. Often there are cleanup efforts used by the assailant to remove bloodstains, which alter their appearance at the scene.
