Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
11000136 | Forensic Science International | 2018 | 4 Pages |
Abstract
Homicide occurs in approximately one in five injury-related deaths among infants in the United States and studies suggest that male caretakers (fathers or mothers' intimate partners) are the perpetrators of the majority of infant homicides. Opioid abuse is common and it is estimated that between 26.4 million and 36 million people abuse opioids worldwide. In this case report, we add to the literature the first reported homicide by intentional heroin administration in a 10-month old infant. Toxicology revealed morphine 1092Â ng/L, codeine 74Â ng/mL, and 6-monoacetyl-morphine 359Â ng/L in cardiac blood. Morphine 803Â ng/g, codeine 54Â ng/g in liver tissue, and morphine 181Â ng/mL was found in vitreous humor. With the prevalence of opioid abuse on the rise accidental opioid ingestions in the pediatric population have increased. However, forensic personnel must recognize the possibility of intentional poisoning in this vulnerable population.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Chemistry
Analytical Chemistry
Authors
Anthea B. Mahesan Paul, Lary Simms, Althea M. Mahesan,