Deaths associated with Methanol Poisoning in Şanlıurfa

Abstract

Purpose: Methanol, is a clear, colourless, highly toxic substance obtained from the destructive distillation of wood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, chronic alcohol users consumed alternatives such as cologne and cheap alcohol, the toxicology analyses showed that there was an increase in methanol poisoning due to the use of cheaper methanol instead of ethanol in alcoholic liquids. The aim of this study was to evaluate autopsy cases in the Şanlıurfa Forensic Medicine Branch Directorate that were recorded as cause of death from methanol poisoning. Materials and Methods: 15 cases whose cause of death was determined to be methyl alcohol intoxication were examined at Şanlıurfa Forensic Medicine Branch Directorate between 1 January 2016 and 1 November 2022. Sociodemographic data of the cases, crime scene information, clinical findings and hospitalization data, distribution of events according to years, type of beverage consumed toxicological and pathological data were evaluated. Results: All of the cases were male. The mean age was calculated as 52.1. The drinks consumed were determined to be cologne in 8 cases, fake raki, whisky and vodka in 4, and the type of drink could not be determined in 3 cases. Conclusion: It should not be forgotten that in times of increased alcohol consumption, methanol can be mixed with liquids in place of ethanol, and programs should be implemented to inform the public about intoxications. The necessary precautions against methanol intoxication should be taken by increasing control at the production and sales stages of alcoholic drinks and antiseptics containing alcohol, such as cologne.

Keywords

• autopsy
• death
• forensic medicine
• methanol poisoning