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Distribution of ether in two postmortem cases.

Dawn Cox1, Rebecca DeRienz, Rebecca A Jufer Phipps

  • 1Division of Forensic Toxicology, Office of the Armed Forces Medical Examiner, 1413 Research Blvd., Bldg. 102, Rockville, Maryland 20850, USA.

Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|November 30, 2006
PubMed
Summary
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Diethyl ether, once an anesthetic, was detected in two fatal cases involving asphyxia. One case involved hanging, while the other was ruled a suicide by suffocation using ether-soaked materials.

Area of Science:

  • Forensic Toxicology
  • Postmortem Analysis
  • Chemical Detection

Background:

  • Diethyl ether (ether) was historically used as an anesthetic but is now largely obsolete due to safety concerns like flammability.
  • This study examines two recent postmortem cases where diethyl ether was detected, highlighting its potential for misuse.

Observation:

  • Case 1: An 18-year-old male found deceased from asphyxia due to hanging, with a gas mask and starting fluid nearby.
  • Case 2: A 20-year-old male found deceased from asphyxia, ruled a suicide, with trash bags over his head and ether-soaked rags present.

Findings:

  • Diethyl ether was quantitatively identified in both cases using headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
  • Ether concentrations were determined, contributing to the understanding of exposure levels in these incidents.

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Implications:

  • These cases underscore the importance of considering volatile solvents like diethyl ether in postmortem investigations, especially in cases of asphyxia.
  • The findings emphasize the need for awareness regarding the potential for intentional misuse of common household chemicals for self-harm.