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A fatal copper sulfate poisoning.

J M Gulliver1

  • 1Home Office Forensic Science Laboratory, Birmingham, United Kingdom.

Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|November 1, 1991
PubMed
Summary

Accidental copper sulfate ingestion led to a child's rapid death. Postmortem analysis confirmed high copper levels in blood, identified using SEM-microprobe analysis and X-ray fluorescence, and quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry.

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Area of Science:

  • Forensic toxicology
  • Analytical chemistry
  • Environmental health

Background:

  • Copper sulfate is a toxic compound that can be fatal if ingested.
  • Accidental poisonings, especially in children, necessitate rapid and accurate diagnostic methods.
  • Establishing toxicological levels in postmortem cases is crucial for determining cause of death.

Observation:

  • An 11-year-old female experienced a fatal outcome within hours of ingesting copper sulfate.
  • Postmortem blood analysis detected a critical copper concentration of 66 µg/mL.

Findings:

  • Scanning Electron Microscopy-Microprobe Analysis (SEM-MPA) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) were utilized for initial qualitative identification of copper poisoning.
  • Atomic absorption spectrometry provided precise quantification of copper levels in biological samples.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the rapid and severe toxicity of copper sulfate, emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures.
  • The study underscores the critical role of advanced analytical methods in forensic toxicology for confirming poisoning and determining cause of death.

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