Forensic Review of Hot Bath-Related Death in the Elderly: Focused on Japanese Studies
10.7580/kjlm.2018.42.2.33
- Author:
Gi Yeong HUH
1
;
Eui Yong KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Forensic Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Korea. gyhuh@pusan.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Baths;
Aged;
Sudden death;
Physiopathology;
Cause of death
- MeSH:
Aged;
Asian Continental Ancestry Group;
Autopsy;
Baths;
Cause of Death;
Compensation and Redress;
Death, Sudden;
Dissent and Disputes;
Drowning;
Epidemiologic Studies;
Epidemiology;
Humans;
Immersion;
Insurance, Life;
Korea;
Seasons
- From:Korean Journal of Legal Medicine
2018;42(2):33-38
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Hot bath-related deaths occur occasionally in Korea, particularly in the winter season among elderly people. The postmortem determination of the cause and manner of death is often difficult because the investigation depends predominantly on postmortem external examination. Moreover, the pathogenesis of sudden death during immersion in a hot bath tub is not easily explained. Confusion regarding the manner of death, whether accidental or natural, causes some conflicts in the compensation of life insurance. This study reviewed the literature, particularly Japanese studies about epidemiology, pathophysiology, and the disputes regarding determination of the manner of death. We concluded that the cause and manner of death are not as simple as only natural disease or drowning; there are complicated cases mixed with accidental and natural causes. Extensive epidemiological studies and thorough investigation, including full autopsy and toxicologic studies, are essential for comprehensive understanding of hot bath-related deaths in Korea.
