Shallow Water Blackout (Hypoxic Blackout)–Induced Drowning: An Autopsy Report of Two Cases
10.7580/kjlm.2022.46.4.122
- Author:
Sangjoon CHOI
1
;
SangHan LEE
;
Yo Han JEON
;
Ji Hyun PARK
;
Jong Kyu LEE
;
Nam Seok YEO
Author Information
1. Department of Forensic Medicine, Defense Institute of Forensic Science, Criminal Investigation Command, Ministry of National Defense, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:Korean Journal of Legal Medicine
2022;46(4):122-125
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Shallow water blackout (SWB) is defined as loss of consciousness due to hypoxia during underwater swimming or breath-holding, usually in shallow waters. To date, no cases of SWB-induced drowning have been reported in the Republic of Korea. Here, we report two cases of SWB, followed by drowning, with autopsy findings. Two men, aged 20 (case 1) and 25 (case 2) years, suddenly lost their consciousness during underwater swimming and escape training, respectively. Postmortem examination revealed foamy fluid within trachea and bronchus, pulmonary edema, and sphenoid sinus fluid, which are commonly observed findings in drowning cases. None of the organs in either case showed pathologic alterations, except for hypoplastic coronary artery disease incidentally found in case 2. Pathologists should be aware of this distinct pathologic entity to avoid misdiagnosing the cause or manner of death.
