A Case Who Died Due to the Suicidal Intake of Aluminum Phosphide

Abstract

Introduction: Aluminum phosphide poisoning is an important heath problem due to high mortality rate although it is rarely seen in Turkey and developed countries. Aluminum phosphate tablets in 3 g weight which are placed on the market under the trade name “57% Fumiphos” include 57% aluminum phosphide and 43% ammonium carbonate. In the present report, it was aimed to define clinical, crime scene investigation and autopsy findings of a case of aluminum phosphide poisoning that rarely seen in Turkey and to comparatively discuss data of our case and literature knowledge. Case: 20 years old male patient, hospitalized with ambulance following intake of aluminum phosphide while he was in military service and he was accepted as exitus after intense cardio-pulmonary resuscitation efforts. From witness statements, it was learned that patient taken orally a poison; a pill box written “Fumiphos 57% aluminum phosphide” on it, was found in patient’s jacket pocket; and it was learned that patient shared some words about death in social media. In the performed medico-legal autopsy, macroscopic findings were defined and the tissue samples which obtained in autopsy were examined microscopically. In the results of toxicological analysis of samples which obtained in autopsy, it was reported the presence of 14184 ng/g aluminum in stomach contents and p-toluene sulfonic acid in visceral organ and muscle samples. Discussion: Macroscopic and microscopic findings which obtained at autopsy was found compatible with non-specific findings which defined in the literature. In the result of evaluation of crime scene, autopsy and toxicological analysis findings, it was decided that the person's death occurred due to aluminum phosphide poisoning. Conclusion: In this case report, a case who died due to aluminum phosphide poisoning that was a condition commonly seen in developing countries, but rarely seen in Turkey and developed countries was presented and precautions against aluminum phosphide poisoning were defined. Additionally, we suggest that macroscopic and microscopic autopsy findings of the present case which rarely defined in classical literature will be guide for aluminum phosphide poisoning to medico-legal examiners.