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Table 1 Specific autopsy findings

From: Choking together with aspiration of gastric contents: rare form of maternal death

Organ/system

Finding

Lungs and respiratory system

Weight: right lung — 350 g, left lung — 357 g

No petechial hemorrhages in visceral pleura

Partially digested gastric contents within trachea, bronchi, and well beyond the secondary bronchi (Fig. 1a)

Respiratory mucosa — mildly inflamed

No evidence of pulmonary thromboembolism and pulmonary infections

Heart

No petechial hemorrhages in epicardium. Normal artery circulation. Normal myocardium and valves

Stomach

Full with gastric contents — 800 ml of partially digested rice and curry

No evidence of hiatal hernia, varices at the gastroesophageal junction, and inflammation at the lower esophagus. No gastric mucosal erosions and ulcerations

Uterus and genitourinary system

Uterus enlarged in size with a small amount of retained product of conception and blood clots

No evidence of trauma at the vulva, vaginal canal, or cervix