A case of suicidal rat poisoning masquerading as homicide.

ABSTRACT

This is a case report of bromadiolone poisoning, which was mistaken initially as a case of assault and homicide by the relatives and police. Bromadiolone acts by inhibiting vitamin K synthesis and produces multiple areas of bleeding that can bear a superficial resemblance to contusions. The history however, later revealed that the deceased had consumed a rat poison whose main constituent was bromadiolone. The clinical diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation was supported by the his-topathology findings, and the toxicological analysis confirmed the presence of bromadiolone. The antidote to this compound is vitamin K1 and in severe cases, whole blood or plasma also should be used. Once the patient has stabilized, and in less severe cases, vitamin K1 can be given orally.