Carnal gratification goes fatally wrong: A case of autoerotic asphyxial death

Autoerotic asphyxia, when seen on the basis of the psychoanalytical scrutiny, is a paraphilia wherein an individual seeks or heightens sexual gratification by inducing cerebral hypoxia.¹ Most of the time, though, it is associated with hardcore sexual masochists, it is sometimes practiced by curious school boys and men, who are unaware of the risks involved. We present a case of accidental death of a college student due to this deviant sexual behavior. Autopsy was backed by methodical examination of the scene of occurrence and psychological workup, which helped in establishing the manner of death. Autoerotic deaths, though not common, aren't uncommon either; and run a risk of being misdiagnosed as suicidal hanging in the absence of ancillary work up.