National Institute of Scientific Investigation. Eastern District Office, Korea. cheyys@nisi.go.kr

Carbon monoxide(CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-irritating gas whose relative density is a little less than that of air. The most common sources of CO in deaths are fires, automobile exhaust, defective heaters, and incomplete combustion of burning products, such as charcoal briquets. CO is produced whenever organic materials are burned with inadequate supply of oxygen necessary to produce complete combustion. The CO poisoning is one of the most common causes of death in developing and underdeveloped countries. Almost fatal CO poisoning cases, mostly accidental or suicidal deaths occur in enclosed or restricted place nearby fuel-burning heating appliances. However, this case occurred in very unusual place away from the heating appliances due to faulty chimney duct. Because of a peculiar place, it is difficult to imagine the cause of death as a CO poisoning. Deaths from CO inhalation can occur if the individual is in proximity to a rich source of CO for a prolonged time. Therefore, even though men dies away from the heating appliance, it is necessary to bear in mind the possibility of CO poisoning.

Key Words : CO intoxication, Faulty chimney duct