Sri Lankan Journal of Forensic Medicine,Science & Law
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- ItemDrowning associated diatoms in Sri Lanka(University of Peradeniya, 2010) Gunatilake, P.G.L; Gooneratne, InduwaraThis study aims to identify drowning-associated diatoms (DADs) in suspected drowning cases in Sri Lanka, as diatom analysis can help distinguish drowning from other causes of death. Thirty-five tissue samples from drowning victims, including lungs, kidneys, and bone marrow, were analyzed using the nitric acid digestion and centrifuge method. The most frequently identified genus was Cyclotella, followed by Navicula and Nitzschia, with additional genera such as Frustulia , Gomphonema, Pinnularia, Cymbella, and Cocconeis also detected. The shape, size, and flexibility of the diatom cell wall influence its ability to penetrate lung tissues and enter the bloodstream. While diatom presence in tissues can indicate drowning, it is important to consider the potential for diatoms to be present in the body under normal conditions, particularly in those who drink untreated water. This study documents the common diatom genera associated with drowning in Sri Lanka, providing valuable forensic insight for future investigations.
- ItemA Death on surgical table due to renal tumor embolism : A Case Report(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2011) Hulathduwa, S. R.This case report discusses the rare and fatal occurrence of pulmonary embolism caused by a renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tumor embolus during a nephrectomy in a 45-year-old male farmer from Sri Lanka. The patient presented with a left abdominal mass, loin pain, and painless hematuria, and was diagnosed with RCC, which had extended into the renal vein and inferior vena cava. Despite successful nephrectomy, the patient became hemodynamically unstable and suffered a cardiac arrest. Surgical exploration revealed a saddle thrombus obstructing the pulmonary trunk, which was consistent with a tumor embolus from the RCC. Despite resuscitation efforts, the patient died on the table. The autopsy confirmed the presence of clear cell carcinoma and identified the cause of death as pulmonary tumor embolism. This case highlights the rare yet fatal risk of tumor embolism during surgery for RCC and underscores the importance of medico-legal autopsy in determining the cause of death in such cases.
- ItemAn uncommon cause for a sudden postoperative death : a case report(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2011) Dayapala, A; Fernando, JThis case report highlights a rare cause of sudden postoperative death in a 24-year-old female who underwent a near-total thyroidectomy for a benign thyroid nodule. The patient experienced sudden cardiac arrest shortly after being transferred to the ward post-surgery, despite resuscitative efforts. The autopsy revealed a previously undiagnosed Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia (ARVD), characterized by severe fatty infiltration of the right ventricular myocardium, which was the likely cause of her fatal arrhythmia. A small atrial septal defect (ASD) was also identified, though it was not considered a significant contributing factor. ARVD is an autosomal dominant condition that can remain undiagnosed until sudden death occurs, particularly in its concealed phase, making it challenging to detect in routine preoperative assessments. This case underscores the importance of histopathological evaluation in unexplained postoperative deaths and highlights the limitations of standard investigations in detecting ARVD.
- ItemDo rituals violate the rights of the mentally ill patient?(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2011) Dias, G.S.S.R.; Gooneratne, IThis study examines the ethical, medico-legal, and human rights challenges associated with ritualistic management practices for psychiatric patients in Sri Lanka. Health-seeking behaviors in Sri Lanka are heavily influenced by traditional practices and cultural beliefs, with many patients seeking ritualistic treatments before resorting to allopathic care. These rituals, which range from physically demanding procedures like walking on live charcoal to more subtle practices such as the use of charms, are often performed without proper consent and can result in significant physical and emotional harm. The study highlights cases where patients have been subjected to abusive rituals, including forced physical restraints and harmful practices carried out by ritualistic healers, sometimes with the family’s proxy consent. The lack of regulatory oversight and legal frameworks governing these practices exacerbates the risk of patient rights violations. The article further explores the issues surrounding informed consent, patient autonomy, and the consequences of neglecting medical treatment. It calls for legislative and policy reforms to ensure better protection of patients' rights, while also considering cultural values and beliefs. By advocating for a more integrated approach, the study emphasizes the need for collaboration between ritualistic healers and medical professionals to create a balanced, safe, and culturally sensitive healthcare system for psychiatric patients in Sri Lanka.
- ItemDevelopment of a low cost in-house method for the analysis of human y-chromosomal mini STR LOCI DYS19, DYS390 and DYS388(University of Peradeniya, 2010) Gajanayaka, Anushika T.; Markalanda, Dinuka; Hettiarachchi, Priyani; Fernandopulle, Neil D.; Illepruma, Ruwan J.