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https://hdl.handle.net/2440/44199
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Type: | Journal article |
Title: | Death associated with volatile substance inhalation - Histologic scanning electron microscopic and energy dispersive X-ray spectral analyses of lung tissue |
Author: | Byard, R. Gilbert, J. Terlet, J. |
Citation: | Forensic Science International, 2007; 171(2-3):118-121 |
Publisher: | Elsevier Sci Ireland Ltd |
Issue Date: | 2007 |
ISSN: | 0379-0738 1872-6283 |
Statement of Responsibility: | Roger W. Byard, John D. Gilbert and John Terlet |
Abstract: | The investigation of deaths due to the inhalation of volatile substances may be complicated by a lack of scene and autopsy findings. Mechanisms of death may not be determinable at autopsy, and there may be very few markers of inhalant abuse. A 21-year-old man is reported who died from the combined effects of methadone toxicity and toluene inhalation. Histological examination of the lungs revealed congestion and edema, as well as particles of blue, pigmented material within the interstitium and in macrophages. Scanning electron microscopy was undertaken, revealing that the particles contained granules that measured 0.15-0.2microm in diameter, within the range of mean particle sizes for inorganic paint pigments. Energy dispersive X-ray spectral analysis of the granules demonstrated a significant percentage of titanium (12%) confirming their origin from paint. Ancillary investigations such as electron microscopy and X-ray spectral analysis in cases of possible lethal volatile inhalation may prove useful adjuncts in determining the type of substance inhaled and in providing evidence of previous non-lethal episodes. |
Keywords: | Lung Macrophages Humans Pulmonary Edema Substance-Related Disorders Foreign Bodies Aluminum Titanium Toluene Methadone Narcotics Solvents Microscopy, Electron, Scanning Spectrum Analysis Administration, Inhalation Forensic Pathology Paint Adult Male |
Description: | Copyright © 2006 Elsevier Ireland Ltd All rights reserved. |
DOI: | 10.1016/j.forsciint.2006.10.008 |
Description (link): | http://www.elsevier.com/wps/find/journaldescription.cws_home/505512/description#description |
Published version: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2006.10.008 |
Appears in Collections: | Aurora harvest 6 Pathology publications |
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