Accidental fatal inhalation of sulfuric acid fumes

A man found dead with circumstantial evidence indicating exposure to sulfuric acid vapor. He had been applying a solution of concentrated sulfuric acid to a drain pipe in an attempt to clear a blockage. External examination showed moderate corrosive damage around his mouth and nose, on his forearms and tips of fingers of his left hand. Autopsy revealed congestion of the respiratory passages, as well as severe pulmonary edema. Traces of acid and sulfate compounds were chemically detected in his upper respiratory passages. Death was attributed to accidental inhalation of fumes of strong sulfuric acid during application to blocked drainpipes.