True about cadaveric spasm-a) Develops immediately after deathb) May develop hours after deathc) Develops only in facial musclesd) Involves individual/small group of muscles

**Core Concept**
Cadaveric spasm, also known as **instantaneous rigor** or **cadaveric rigidity**, is a phenomenon that occurs at the moment of death, characterized by the instantaneous stiffening of certain muscle groups. This condition is distinct from **rigor mortis**, which is a post-mortem stiffening of the body that occurs several hours after death. Cadaveric spasm is thought to be related to the **depletion of ATP** in the muscles.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the fact that cadaveric spasm **develops immediately after death**, involving **individual or small groups of muscles**. This is because the muscles that are affected are the ones that were contracted at the moment of death, and the lack of ATP prevents them from relaxing. The spasm can involve any muscle group, but it's often seen in the hands or fingers.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** May develop hours after death - This is incorrect because cadaveric spasm occurs immediately, whereas rigor mortis develops hours after death.
**Option C:** Develops only in facial muscles - This is incorrect because cadaveric spasm can involve any muscle group, not just facial muscles.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Cadaveric spasm is an important **forensic sign**, as it can provide clues about the circumstances of death, such as the position of the body or the presence of certain objects.

**Correct Answer:** A. Develops immediately after death