Abstract
We present the autopsy findings of a case of attempted suicide by self-administration of elemental mercury, resulting in mercury embolization to the heart and lungs. The person lived for 5 months afterward and subsequently died as a result of narcotic toxicity combined with loss of blood from an incised radial artery. A collection of metallic mercury droplets imbedded in a fibrous tissue granuloma was found in the apex of the right ventricular chamber, and metallic densities were seen on radiography of heart and lungs. The levels of mercury in various organs are shown, and the toxicology of elemental mercury is briefly discussed. The literature describing similar cases of metallic mercury emboli is reviewed. Owing to the apparent rarity of the phenomenon, many questions regarding the risk of death following intravenous injection of metallic mercury still remain unanswered.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
