Abstract
Summary Electrical injuries consist mainly in external burn marks. Internal injuries are rarely observed especially in low-voltage electrocution. In this context, we report two fatal cases due to electrocution by low voltage current (220 volts), with a special emphasis on pathological internal changes. Case no. 1 A 30-year-old male construction worker died after a low-voltage electrocution in the workplace. A medico-legal autopsy was required by judicial authorities. An external examination of the body showed marked facial cyanosis and electrical burn marks on the chest. The autopsy findings showed necrotic lesions of the heart, the thoracic aorta and pulmonary artery. The ischemic lesions were confirmed by histological tests. Case 2 A 20-year-old male was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit for pneumothorax after an accidental low-voltage electrocution. Despite cardiopulmonary reanimation, he died two hours later. An external examination of the corpse showed an electrical burn mark on the right hand. The autopsy findings revealed mainly a right pneumothorax as well as some necrotic lesions in the inferior lobe of the right lung and the anterior face of the liver, which were confirmed microscopically. Discussion-conclusion Death during electrocution by a low-voltage current is uncommon. Visceral necrosis is rarely described in this situation.
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