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Autoerotic asphyxiation in a female
1Department of Pathology, State University of New York Health Science Centers, and the Onondaga County Medical Examiners Office, Syracuse, USA.
The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|June 28, 2000
Summary
Autoerotic asphyxiation, a rare cause of death, is increasingly reported. This case highlights a rare female fatality, emphasizing the need for forensic examiners to distinguish it from other causes of death.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Autoerotic asphyxiation (AEA) is an unusual phenomenon with over 1000 annual fatalities in the US.
- Literature on female victims of AEA is scarce due to a male:female ratio exceeding 50:1.
Observation:
- Presents a case of a 31-year-old woman who died from autoerotic ligature strangulation.
- Reviews existing literature on autoerotic asphyxiation, particularly in female victims.
Findings:
- Autoerotic asphyxiation is an underreported cause of accidental death.
- Female fatalities from autoerotic asphyxiation are rare but documented.
Implications:
- Forensic examiners must differentiate AEA from suicidal, accidental, and homicidal deaths.
- Increased awareness and literature are needed to understand AEA, especially in females.