Could the screening for correct oral health reduce the impact of death due to bolus asphyxia in adult patients? A forensic case report

Abstract

Introduction: "Bolus death" or "Café Coronary syndrome" refers to death due to asphyxia caused by an occlusion of the upper airways due to food. In this kind of asphyxia, the food bolus obstructs the larynx or the bronchial branches. This kind of event often affects subjects with acute intoxication due to alcohol or drugs, or with edentulism and with neurological or psychiatric diseases.

Case report: An elderly woman, suffering from schizophrenia, was found dead in her house due to food bolus asphyxia. The post-mortem toxicological analysis on the deceased's biological fluids revealed the presence of tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics and neuroleptics. Study of the oral cavity showed the presence of partial edentulism and periodontal disease.

Hypothesis: We hypothesize that this kind of asphyxia in adults can be prevented. We believe that there are two major preventable factors: edentulism and salivation disorders in elderly and neuropsychiatric patients. The primary prevention of these pathologies would deal with the basic physician, similarly to other screenings already effectively in place.

Conclusions: It is possible to prevent fatal asphyxia in subjects who suffer from this kind of diseases through appropriate screening. This prevention strategy would greatly reduce the amount of choking deaths in adults.

Keywords: Asphyxia; Drugs; Elderly; Forensic medicine; Schizophrenia.