What is described as the swelling of the body due to gas accumulation?

The term that accurately describes the swelling of the body due to gas accumulation is "bloating." This phenomenon occurs as a result of the production of gases by bacteria during decomposition after death. These gases accumulate in the body cavities, leading to visible swelling, particularly in the abdomen. Understanding this term is crucial for medical death investigators, as it helps them recognize the stages of decomposition and interpret post-mortem findings accurately. In contrast, while putrefaction refers to the breakdown of tissues and the associated odors, and decomposition is the overall process of the body breaking down, bloating specifically highlights the physical manifestation of gas accumulation. Therefore, "bloating" is the most precise term in this context.