Forensic issues in autoerotic deaths: A 44-year systematic review and a case series from the legal medicine institutes of Bologna and Milan, Italy.

Abstract

Autoerotic deaths, defined as accidental fatalities occurring during solitary sexual activities, show complex forensic challenges due to their different mechanisms and variable death scene presentations. This study combines a systematic review of global literature spanning 44 years (from 1980 to 2024) with a detailed case series analysis from the Legal Medicine Institutes of Bologna and Milan, Italy, to provide comprehensive insights into this phenomenon.The systematic review identified 67 relevant reports from databases namely Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. In parallel, a case series of 7 autoerotic fatalities was analyzed, highlighting victims' demographics, causes of death, and associated factors.Findings from 101 cases of autoerotic deaths included in the systematic review indicate a predominant prevalence of asphyxial deaths, with hanging being the most common method, followed by intoxication. The study underscores significant gender disparities, with men comprising most cases (n = 91), spanning a broader age range (12-87 y.o.) compared to women (17-48 y.o.). The findings are fully consistent with the Italian case series presented here, in which all the subjects were men aged 18 to 72 years, and the cause of death was asphyxia in 6 cases.Toxicological analyses played a crucial role in elucidating the cause and manner of death in most cases, yet their utilization varies widely, impacting data reliability and evaluation of the cause of death. Notably, the evidence of volatile substances, especially inhalants, creates an emerging area of interest with potential epidemiological and preventive implications. The systematic analysis revealed substantial variability in death scene characteristics and forensic procedures, emphasizing the need for standardized investigative protocols.This study highlights the multifaceted nature of autoerotic deaths and the importance of a holistic forensic approach encompassing death scene investigation, autopsy, and toxicological analysis. By enhancing the understanding and awareness about this phenomenon, this research aims to inform evidence-based practices in forensics, mitigate diagnostic uncertainties, and facilitate preventive interventions.