Sudden Death Following Oral Intake of Metal Objects (Acuphagia): a Case Report

Emerg (Tehran). 2018;6(1):e16. Epub 2018 Mar 5.

Abstract

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), pica is described as eating one or more non-nutritive, non-food substances over a period of at least 1 month that is severe enough to warrant clinical attention. The present case is a 44-year-old man who was brought to emergency department following severe abdominal pain, but died before admission or receiving any treatments. On the autopsy, 64 bolts and metal fittings (3700 grams) were found in the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine of the patient.

Keywords: Death; case report; intestinal perforation; peritonitis; pica; sudden.

Publication types

  • Case Reports