What poison is typically detected in an exhumed body?

Arsenic is commonly detected in exhumed bodies due to its chemical properties and the nature of its use as a poison. When introduced into the body, arsenic can remain in tissues for extended periods, making it possible to identify even long after death. It has a tendency to bind with certain biological molecules, including proteins and enzymes, which allows it to persist in the body for years.

The detection methods for arsenic in forensic investigations are well-established, often utilizing techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy or mass spectrometry. These methods can effectively highlight arsenic concentrations, even in decomposed tissues.

While other poisons like strychnine, mercury, and cyanide can also be detected in exhumed bodies, they do not retain as long or may decompose more rapidly under the conditions of the body. For example, strychnine is less stable and doesn’t persist as well as arsenic in biological tissues, especially following decomposition. Mercury can also degrade within organic tissues, and cyanide's quick action typically results in death before significant accumulation occurs. Therefore, arsenic stands out as the poison most likely identified in exhumed bodies due to its stability and the nature of forensic analysis.