[Carbon monoxide poisoning in the autopsy material of the Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University Of Białystok in years 1998-2008].

The objective of the paper was to present the observations and conclusions based on the review of autopsy records collected at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Białystok. The criteria under evaluation included gender, age, alcohol level, carboxyhemoglobin concentration and site of poisoning. A seasonal distribution of CO intoxication and a possible relationship between carboxyhemoglobin concentration and ethanol blood level was confirmed. In the years 1998-2008, carbon monoxide poisonings were the cause of death in 219 (4.74%) of a total of 4615 autopsy reports reviewed. Males accounted for more than 79% of all the victims. The highest concentration of carboxyhemoglobin was found in the age group of 41-50 years. A protective effect of low ethanol concentration was noted in persons exposed to CO. The COHb level was determined by the Wolff's method.