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Fatal workplace accident involving ethyl acetate: a distribution study
Vera A Coopman1, Jan A Cordonnier, Christel A De Meyere
1Department of Analytical Toxicology, Chemiphar NV, Bruges, Belgium.
Forensic Science International
|September 27, 2005
Summary
This study details ethyl acetate intoxication, revealing rapid biotransformation into ethanol in postmortem tissues. Highest ethyl acetate levels in the testis suggest potential percutaneous absorption.
Area of Science:
- Forensic toxicology
- Analytical chemistry
Background:
- Ethyl acetate is a common industrial solvent.
- Acute intoxication can result from significant exposure.
- Understanding its postmortem distribution is crucial for forensic investigations.
Observation:
- A fatal case of ethyl acetate intoxication was investigated.
- Tissue samples were analyzed using static headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and flame ionization detection.
- Ethyl acetate and ethanol concentrations were quantified in various tissues.
Findings:
- Rapid biotransformation of ethyl acetate to ethanol by plasma esterases was confirmed.
- Low ethyl acetate to ethanol ratios in tissues indicated rapid in vivo metabolism.
- The highest ethyl acetate concentration was detected in the testis, suggesting possible percutaneous absorption.
Implications:
- This study provides the first tissue distribution data for ethyl acetate intoxication.
- Findings aid in interpreting postmortem results in suspected ethyl acetate poisoning cases.
- Highlights the importance of considering absorption routes in forensic toxicology.
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