First Forensic Case of Fatal Salmonella typhimurium var. Copenhagen Gastroenteritis Diagnosed by Postmortem Microbiology

Postmortem microbiology (PMM) is increasingly recognized as a key tool in forensic medicine, particularly in cases lacking antemortem data or when autopsy and histology are nonspecific. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, including the Copenhagen variant, is a major cause of foodborne disease. While most cases are self-limiting, severe, sometimes fatal outcomes have been reported. A 32-year-old previously healthy man developed profuse vomiting and was found dead the following morning. Autopsy revealed abundant bilious gastric content and liquid stools, without evidence of trauma or intoxication. PMM yielded abundant pure growth of S. typhimurium var. Copenhagen from gastric content, while no viral, protozoal, or other bacterial pathogens were detected. Histology revealed cerebral and pulmonary edema and diffuse gastric mucosal inflammation. Toxicology was negative. The integration of autopsy, histology, toxicology, and PMM supported the attribution of death to acute infectious gastroenteritis due to S. typhimurium var. Copenhagen. A severe dehydration leading to electrolyte imbalance and fatal cardiac arrhythmia was considered the most plausible mechanism of death. The rapid fatal course was explained by the absence of fluid replacement or medical intervention. This report underscores the value of rigorous PMM protocols not only for cause-of-death determination but also for strengthening infectious disease surveillance.