YELLOW PHOSPHORUS AS A HOMICIDAL TOOL – A CASE REPORT

Authors: RAMALINGAM S

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijfmts.13059.1758703961

Keywords: Homicide, rodenticide, yellow phosphorus

Abstract: Abstract: Poisoning by administration of phosphorus was frequently employed for committing murder. Numerous such cases are mentioned in the literature where poisoning was done by clandestinely mixing phosphorous in jam, soup or alcohol and given to the unsuspecting victims. This is one such case of a four year old girl baby who was poisoned by her mother due to the mother’s conflict with the husband. Poisoning due to rodenticides is not very uncommon and remains as a significant concern in the field of public health. Accidental ingestion of rodenticides leading to poisoning is common among children. They usually present with symptoms of bleeding diathesis, neurological and metabolic disturbances. Early identification of the toxic compound is crucial for initiating effective treatment and management. Consultation with poison control centers or toxicologists is essential for guidance on appropriate treatment of rodenticide toxicity. Key words: Homicide, rodenticide, yellow phosphorus