Autopsy: Obstruction by bed clothing, a pillow, a cushion, etc.
, applied with skill, may not leave
any external signs of violence, especially in the young and the old, except signs of asphyxia. When the face is pressed into a pillow, the skin around the nose and mouth may appear pale or white due to pressure, with cyanosis of the face. Saliva, blood, and tissue cells may be found on the pillow. If the orifices are closed by the hand, there may be scratches, distinct nail marks, or laceration of the soft parts of the victim’s face.