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Partial amputation due to tongue bite in death-associated with eclampsia.
Matías Arroyo-Navarrete1,2, Lourdes Gómez-Jiménez3, Gabriel M Fonseca4,5,6
1Centro de Investigación en Odontología Legal y Forense (CIO), Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.
Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology
|June 1, 2024
Summary
Eclampsia, a severe pregnancy complication, can cause seizures leading to severe tongue injuries. This case highlights death from a seizure-induced tongue amputation, emphasizing screening needs.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neurology
- Forensic Medicine
Background:
- Eclampsia is a critical pregnancy complication with high incidence in developing nations.
- Characterized by hypertension, seizures, and coma in pregnant women.
- Orofacial injuries, including tongue bites, are known consequences of eclamptic seizures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a fatal eclampsia case with severe tongue injury.
- To discuss the medico-legal implications of seizure-induced macroglossia.
- To highlight the importance of screening pregnant women, including migrants.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation.
- Review of clinical findings and medico-legal aspects.
- Discussion of public health and screening strategies.
Main Results:
- A case of death due to eclampsia is presented.
- The seizure episode resulted in near-total amputation of an enlarged tongue (macroglossia) from a bite.
- Medico-legal significance of the finding was analyzed.
Conclusions:
- Eclampsia poses severe risks, including fatal outcomes and significant physical trauma.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for pregnant women with hypertension.
- Routine screening and awareness are vital, especially for migrating populations seeking better healthcare.
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