Accidental Petrol Ingestion in an Adult: An Autopsy-based Case Report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jfmt.2026.43.02.26Keywords:
Accidental poisoning, Autopsy, Forensic pathology, Gasoline, Hydrocarbon, PetrolAbstract
Petrol poisoning, though commonly associated with inhalation and dermal exposure, can also result from accidental oral ingestion, particularly when petrol is stored in inappropriate containers. This case report describes a 43-year-old male who accidentally ingested petrol, mistaking it for liquor. The patient presented with hemoptysis, abdominal pain, and systemic deterioration over five days, culminating in upper gastrointestinal bleed, acute kidney injury, hepatic dysfunction, and death. Autopsy findings revealed extensive mucosal damage to the esophagus and stomach, pulmonary edema, and yellowish discoloration of organs, while histopathology confirmed diffuse acute tubular necrosis, hepatocellular injury, alveolar hemorrhage and edema, and oesophageal and gastric necrosis. Despite treatment, the patient succumbed to multi-organ failure. This case highlights the dangers of petrol ingestion, especially in vulnerable populations, and emphasizes the importance of public education regarding proper storage of toxic substances. Additionally, it underscores the value of comprehensive postmortem and histopathological evaluation in establishing the cause of death in poisoning cases, particularly when the toxicological report is negative.
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