Retrospective analysis of 217 fatal intoxication autopsy cases from 2009 to 2021: temporal trends in fatal intoxication at Tongji center for medicolegal expertise, Hubei, China

This retrospective analysis of fatal intoxication case autopsies was performed at Tongji Center for Medicolegal Expertise in Hubei (TCMEH) from 2009 to 2021 to obtain up-to-date information on intoxication cases. The objective was to describe important data about evolving patterns in intoxication occurrences, enhance public safety policies, and assist forensic examiners and police in more efficient handling of such cases. Analyses based on sex, age, topical exposure routes, toxic agents, and mode of death were performed using 217 records of intoxication cases collected from TCMEH as a sample, and the results were compared with reports previously published (from 1999 to 2008) from this institution. Deaths from intoxications occurred at a higher rate in males than in females and were most common among individuals aged 30-39 years. The most frequent method of exposure was oral ingestion. The causative agents of deadly intoxications have changed when compared to the data from the previous 10 years. For instance, deaths from amphetamine overdoses are becoming more prevalent gradually, whereas deaths due to carbon monoxide and rodenticide intoxication have declined dramatically. In 72 cases, pesticides continued to be the most frequent intoxication cause. A total of 60.4% of the deaths were accidental exposure. Men died from accidents at a higher rate than women, although women were more likely to commit suicide. Particular focus is needed on the use of succinylcholine, cyanide, and paraquat in homicides.

Automated summary

This retrospective analysis examined fatal intoxication cases from 2009 to 2021 at the Tongji Center for Medicolegal Expertise in Hubei to provide updated information on intoxication patterns. The study aimed to describe important data on intoxication occurrences, improve public safety policies, and assist forensic examiners and police in handling such cases more efficiently. The analysis of 217 cases revealed that deaths from intoxications were more common in males, primarily among individuals aged 30-39. Oral ingestion was the most frequent exposure method. The causative agents of fatal intoxications showed changes compared to the previous decade, with amphetamine overdoses becoming more prevalent and carbon monoxide and rodenticide intoxication declining significantly. Pesticides remained the leading cause of intoxication in 72 cases. Accidental exposure accounted for 60.4% of the deaths, with men more likely to die from accidents and women more likely to commit suicide. The use of succinylcholine, cyanide, and paraquat in homicides requires particular attention.