Journal Published Online: 01 January 1989
Volume 34, Issue 1

Analysis of Cocaine-Positive Fatalities

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

A review of all autopsy and toxicology reports for persons dying in New York City in an 11-month period found 935 persons dying with cocaine in their bodies. Cocaine-positive fatalities were more likely in the young black and Hispanic and male population. In addition to cocaine and its metabolites, heroin and other opiates were found in 39% of persons and ethanol in 33% and barbituates and minor tranquilizers in only 2% of the deceased. Cocaine overdose was responsible for 4% of the deaths and overdose with heroin and cocaine for 12% of the deaths. Violence was often the cause of death. Thirty-eight percent died of homicide, seven percent of suicide, and eight percent from accidents. Of particular interest were 6 persons who died of acute cardiac events directly related to cocaine as well as 4 cases of ruptured dissections of the ascending aorta, and 9 cases of cerebral hemorrhage. Autopsy findings for these individuals are described, and possible mechanisms of death are discussed.

Author Information

Tardiff, K
Cornell University Medical College, New York, NY
Gross, E
New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
Wu, J
St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Boston, MA
Stajic, M
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, New York, NY
Millman, R
Cornell University Medical College, New York, NY
Pages: 11
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS12610J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12610J