Nonnatural death masquerading as SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 1988 Jun;9(2):105-11. doi: 10.1097/00000433-198806000-00004.

Abstract

This article relates our experiences with accidental and homicidal deaths in reported sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) cases. Our intent is to alert personnel in medical and health-related professions as well as death investigators (coroners, law enforcement officials, etc.) that a thorough scene investigation and history need to be obtained when a child's death has been reported, since this may modify the type of autopsy to be performed. It should not be assumed that all children less than 1 year of age who die suddenly die from SIDS.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Home*
  • Amitriptyline / poisoning
  • Asphyxia / pathology
  • Child Abuse*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Drowning / pathology
  • Female
  • Homicide
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Sudden Infant Death / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Amitriptyline