Korean Journal of Radiology

The Korean Society of Radiology (대한영상의학회)
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Forensic Imaging for Causal Investigation of Death

  • Simons, David (Department of Radiology (E010), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)) ;
  • Sassenberg, Alina (Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Heidelberg) ;
  • Schlemmer, Heinz-Peter (Department of Radiology (E010), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)) ;
  • Yen, Kathrin (Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Heidelberg)
  • Received : 2013.08.31
  • Accepted : 2013.12.19
  • Published : 2014.04.01
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Abstract

A 63-year-old man was found in the street after overrun by a car. Postmortem CT revealed multiple bone fractures, but surprisingly all without any relevant hemorrhage which would have been expected under such circumstances. A round radiopaque formation was found in the duodenum, which was reminiscent of ingested tablets. The toxicological analysis revealed high concentrations of zopiclone and alcohol. By combining radiologic and forensic results, zopiclone and alcohol intoxication were concluded as the cause of death, followed by a postmortem overrun accident.

Keywords

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