Death Following Methyl Alcohol Intoxication: Gross Autopsy and Histological Findings

Cureus. 2024 Jul 27;16(7):e65498. doi: 10.7759/cureus.65498. eCollection 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Methanol, or wood alcohol, is a clear liquid with a weak odor, slightly sweeter than ethanol, which is easily accessible. The last makes it a product of choice for intentional self-harm, severe intoxication, or even suicide. Accidental ingestion and homicidal usage are not exclusions. We present and discuss the case of a man in his 20s who was in continuous alcoholic intoxication until he finally abused with methanol and was admitted to a hospital, where he died six days later. When it comes to intoxication, there are often no apparent findings that could help in determining the cause and manner of death. The last is especially important in cases of delayed death when the toxicology results are negative.

Keywords: forensic pathology; formic acid; intoxication; methanol; methanol poisoning; methanol toxicity; methyl alcohol poisoning; suicide; toxicology.

Publication types

  • Case Reports