Inhaler intoxications developed during autopsy of the corpse due to cyanide intake: Case series

Am J Emerg Med. 2020 Jul;38(7):1542.e5-1542.e8. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2020.03.053. Epub 2020 Apr 2.

Abstract

The primary cause of cyanide intake is suicidal attempts, most of which result in death. People who interfere with suspicion of cyanide intoxication may also be exposed to cyanide poisoning. During the autopsy of the corpse in the morning of that day, five people in the autopsy room within the hospital were admitted to the ED with suspicion of cyanide intoxication. Meanwhile, a 36-year-old patient who had come into contact with the patient at night also presented to the ED. Some of the precautionary measures to be taken against inhalation of cyanide may be wearing appropriate masks as well as suitable clothes and keeping the surroundings below 28 °C when exposed to cyanide.

Keywords: Cyanide; Emergency service; Precautionary measures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Air Pollutants, Occupational / adverse effects*
  • Autopsy*
  • Blood Gas Analysis
  • Cyanides / poisoning*
  • Dizziness / chemically induced
  • Dyspnea / chemically induced
  • Female
  • Headache / chemically induced
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nausea / chemically induced
  • Occupational Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Tachypnea / chemically induced

Substances

  • Air Pollutants, Occupational
  • Cyanides