Fatal heroin and methadone intoxication in a 4-year old child: A case report

Abstract

Intoxication cases due to drug abused have been increasing dramatically worldwide. Accidentally exposure to abused drugs also causes intoxication even death. In this report we describe an autopsy case pertaining to a 4-year old foreign girl who was taken to hospital for accidental intake of antihypertensive drugs. No pathological significance was observed except pulmonary edema in histopathological examination. Methadone, heroin, their metabolites and heroin impurities were found in biological samples with toxicological screening. Antihypertensive drugs were not detected in the samples. The case declares drug intoxication due to heroin and methadone intake together. In addition reveals children of drug-dependent parents are in danger and essential precautions should be taken by government.

Keywords

• methadone
• heroin
• child

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