[Pathology of accidental electrocution: an autopsy study of 16 cases]

To study the pathologic findings seen in lethal cases due to accidental electrocution.

The macroscopic and microscopic findings in 16 autopsy cases died of electrocution encountered during the period from January, 2001 to July, 2008 were retrospectively reviewed.

Typical electric marks were found on gross examination in 5 of the 16 cases studied. Histologically, 11 of the 16 cases showed evidence of electric burn. The morphologic features of atypical electric marks varied. Simple epidermal exfoliation and color changes were relatively common. Pathologic changes in internal viscera included disarray of myocardial fibers. Rupture of myocardial fibers was readily identified than in non-electrocution death. Sometimes, focal interstitial hemorrhage and polarization of endothelial cells were seen.

The electric marks on the skin, as confirmed by histologic examination, remain important sequelae of electrocution. The pathologic changes seen in myocardium provide additional clues to the diagnosis.