What is the term for the process of sloughing off the epidermis due to putrefaction?

Desquamation refers to the process by which the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, sheds or sloughs off. This can occur naturally as part of the skin's renewal process or as a result of various conditions, including putrefaction, where the tissues undergo decomposition due to microbial activity after death. During decomposition, the integrity of the epidermis is compromised, leading to its detachment. This process is critical in the context of preparation for disposition, as understanding skin changes can inform proper handling and preparation of remains.

The other terms listed have distinct meanings that do not pertain to the sloughing off of the epidermis. Discoloration relates to changes in the color of tissues and can occur during decomposition but does not specifically refer to the shedding of skin. Disinfection refers to the process of cleaning or sterilizing surfaces and objects to eliminate pathogens, and edema describes the swelling caused by fluid retention in tissues, none of which relate directly to the sloughing off of skin.