Are post-mortem methemoglobin concentrations valid indicators of anti-mortem methemoglobinemia?
No-postmortem methemoglobin concentrations do not predict anti-mortem methemoglobinemia. In a study performed in Seattle, WA, samples were taken from heart blood in 49 autopsies (in which the deaths were not related to methemoglobinemia). They revealed methemoglobin levels up to 59%, with a mean of 17.27% (SD±13.28%).
Reay DT, Eisele JW, Insalaco SJ. Postmortem methemoglobin concentrations and their significance. Journal of forensic sciences. 1984 Oct 1;29(4):1160-3.
Contributed by: Kristine Nanagas, MD
Posted in Question Of The Day