Infanticide by organophosphorous poisoning – a case report

Organophosphates (OP) are widely used as insecticides. Accidental and suicidal OP poisoning is reported world wide but homicidal poisoning has always been rare owing to the disagreeable odour and taste rendered to them by their hydrocarbon solvents. An unusual case of homicide using an organophosphorous compound is presented here. A 1 month-old female infant was brought to Safdarjung hospital with a history of ingestion of some unknown substance given accidentally by her 5 year old female sibling. Post-mortem findings confirmed death due toorganophosphorous poisoning. The conflicting history revealed by both parents led to suspicion about the nature of incident. After thorough police interrogation it was found to be deliberately given by mother. This case highlights the importance of history taking before autopsy and emphasise the necessity of remaining alert to the use of organophosphorus compounds when dealing with homicidal cases. Such cases should be approached with an open mind about the type of poisons and the manner of poisoning while concluding opinions and to aid in the administration of justice.