Radiologic identification of unknown human remains.

During the 15 months from April 1978 through July 1979, 3964 cases were referred to the City of St. Louis, Office of the Medical Examiner. Of these, 71 (1.8%) required investigation to establish identification (ID). All cases were rigorously investigated to establish the most scientifically sound ID possible. In addition to evidence from the scene, fingerprint, dental, and X-ray studies were attempted. Fifty (80.4%) individuals were scientifically identified, 17 (24%) were circumstantially identified, and 4 (5.6%) remain unidentified. Thirty (60%) of the 50 scientific IDs were by comparison of premortem and postmortem radiographs. Positive ID was accomplished in 22 cases of decomposition, 4 fire victims, 2 inadvertent body misidentifications, 1 submersion victim, and 1 suicide. Although all regions of the body were useful for ID, chest, skull, and abdominal radiographs were most frequently helpful. Anatomic, disease, and postsurgical features provided the unique features necessary for identification.

Accidental asphyxial deaths involving infants and young children.

Forty-five cases of accidental asphyxial deaths in infants and young children below 2 years of age are described. The mechanism involved, the available historical information, and the possible preventive measures are discussed. Dangers such as bed- and tub-sharing, diaper and cleaning pails, plastic wrappers, balloons, small beds, toys on strings, broken or poorly designed cribs, and poorly positioned adult beds must be brought to the attention of the parent as consumer. The public heatlh considerations and the educational aspects relating to the community at large are cornerstones in the effort to reduce these tragic and untimely deaths.