Understanding Asphyxia: Types and Mechanisms

Asphyxia

Term used to describe the interference in oxygen transfer to cells, tissues, and organs.

Mechanical Asphyxia

Physical obstruction preventing airflow to lungs.

Non-mechanical Asphyxia

Oxygen deprivation without physical airway obstruction.

Miscellaneous Asphyxia

Type of asphyxia that causes drowning.

Classic Signs of Asphyxia

Petechial hemorrhages, cyanosis, facial congestion.

Tardieu's Spots

Subpleural petechial hemorrhages indicative of asphyxia.

Strangulation

Pressure on neck causing airway obstruction.

Manual Strangulation

Pressure applied to neck using hands.

Ligature Strangulation

Pressure from constricting item around neck.

Hanging

Suspension of body by the neck.

Choking

Accidental obstruction of upper air passages.

Suffocation

Fatal reduction of oxygen in inhaled air.

Smothering

Physical blockage of mouth and nose.

Compression Asphyxia

Pressure on trunk preventing effective breathing.

Positional Asphyxia

Breathing compromised by body position.

Immersion

Submersion leading to respiratory impairment and washerwoman’s hands and fingers.

Drowning

Respiratory impairment from liquid submersion.

External Foam

Foamy fluid in airways from drowning.

Emphysema Aquosum

Water-logged, hyperexpanded lungs post-drowning.

Paltauf's Spots

Petechial hemorrhages beneath pulmonary pleura.

Fresh Water Drowning

Alveolar collapse due to water absorption.

Sea Water Drowning

Inflammation and blood-air barrier disruption.