Korean J Leg Med.  2007 May;31(1):85-88.

Suicidal Smothering by Means of Multiple Loops of Adhesive Tape: A case Report

• Lee SY
• Huh GY
• Kim KH
• Kim KH
• Oh SP

Abstract

Suicidal smothering is distinctly uncommon, especially when caused by winding strips of adhesive tape around the head to cover the nose and mouth. The authors report a very unusual case in which the deceased, a 43-year-old woman, was found with gray adhesive tape wrapped 8 times around the head and strictly obstructed nose and mouse and 2 times around neck. Clear distinction between the homicidal and suicidal smothering by means of multiple loops of adhesive tape is often impossible on the basis of the anatomical findings alone. An accurate evaluation of circumstances, a thorough post-mortem examination, inspection of the scene are extremely important in such cases. We reports a case of suicidal smothering by means of multiple loops of adhesive tape with brief review of literature.

Keyword

Suicide; Smothering

MeSH Terms

Adhesives*
Adult
Animals
Autopsy
Female
Head
Humans
Mice
Mouth
Neck
Nose
Suicide
Wind
Adhesives