The Return of Inorganic Substance Poisoning as a Method of Suicide. An Analysis of Autopsy Reports from 2018-2023 with a Discussion of the Phenomenon

Arch Med Sadowej Kryminol. 2024;74(3):206-220. doi: 10.4467/16891716AMSIK.24.016.20814.

ABSTRACT

THE AIM OF THE STUDY: To describe autopsy findings of suicide victims who used inorganic compounds over the past five years and to attempt to explain the resurgence of these substances as a method of suicidal poisoning.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study is based on a retrospective analysis of autopsy reports from the Department of Forensic Medicine in Cracow, covering the years 2018-2023. Cases of death resulting from suicide by ingestion of inorganic compounds were collected based on toxicological analyses.

RESULTS: Between 2018 and 2023, 23 cases were identified (19 men and 4 women at an average age of 30 years). In 15 victims, poisoning with methemoglobin-forming substances was confirmed; in 7 of these cases, toxicological tests determined the substance to be sodium nitrite. In 13 individuals from this group, livor mortis was cyanotic or grayish in color. In 7 cases, brown blood discoloration was noted. Six more victims chose potassium cyanide as the method of suicide; all displayed congestion of internal organs as well as pulmonary edema. Intensely or moderately reddened stomach mucosa was found in 3 victims. Two individuals committed suicide by ingesting sodium azide.

CONCLUSIONS: In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in suicides involving inorganic compounds. Key factors contributing to this upward trend include easy availability of these poisons and the widespread access to information online regarding their effective use. The relatively young age of the victims can be attributed to their proficiency in using this medium.

PMID:40366720 | DOI:10.4467/16891716AMSIK.24.016.20814