Smothering
Definition
Asphyxia by occlusion of the external respiratory orifices (nose and mouth) without neck compression. May produce minimal or no external marks; internal asphyxial findings (petechiae, pulmonary congestion) are the primary autopsy evidence.
- Mechanism
- Occlusion of the nose and mouth
- Excludes
- Neck compression
- External marks
- Often minimal or absent
- Key autopsy findings
- Petechiae, pulmonary congestion
Common questions
Why is smothering difficult to diagnose at autopsy?+
It often leaves few or no external injuries, and the internal asphyxial findings it does produce, such as petechiae and pulmonary congestion, are nonspecific and also seen in other causes of death.
How does smothering differ from strangulation?+
Smothering blocks the airway externally at the nose and mouth, while strangulation compresses the neck itself, which typically leaves different injury patterns at autopsy.
Related terms
- Anatomy Act 1832
- UK statute prompted by the Burke and Hare murders that legalised use of unclaimed bodies for medical education, removing the economic incentive...
- Burking
- A combined method of homicide by simultaneous smothering (nose and mouth occlusion) and chest compression, preventing thoracic expansion. Named for William Burke...
- Crescentic Fingernail Abrasion
- A crescent-shaped skin abrasion produced by a fingernail during manual strangulation, with concave margin pointing toward the applied finger. Distinguishes manual throttling...
- Frenulum Tear
- A tear in the frenulum labii (the midline fold connecting the upper lip to the gum), produced by forceful smothering pressure; present...
- Gag-and-Bind Asphyxia
- Asphyxia produced by oropharyngeal or nasal obstruction from a gag combined with physical restraint preventing airway clearance; encountered in robbery, kidnapping, and...
- Manual Strangulation (Throttling)
- Asphyxia produced by application of the assailant's hands to the neck, compressing carotid arteries, jugular veins, and trachea. Produces fingertip bruising and...
- SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)
- A diagnosis of exclusion under the AAP definition: sudden unexpected death of an infant under one year, occurring apparently during sleep, unexplained...