A POSSIBLE EXPLANATION FOR SOME CASES OF THE “SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME (SIDS)”

Abstract

Investigations by a physician trained in forensic pediatrics were made following six consecutive SIDS episodes in order to test the hypothesis that there is a causal relationship between home thermal environment and SIDS. In four cases,autopsy had been performed, and SIDS given as a cause of death on the death certificate. In addition to measurements of temperature at various sites in the area where the infant had died, a detailed history was taken, and the scene of the death recreated. Environmental factors, such as the type of bedcovers, condition of the crib, and source and condition of the heat supply were noted. In each of the cases, asphyxia was the appararent cause of death. These include: 1)noxious gases in a tightly sealed basement apartment with a faulty heater; 2)face down smothering in a spongy pillow that had wrapped around the face; 3) three heavy blankets covering an infant in a body cast who was sleeping in a prone position; 4)three cases of mothers sleeping in the same bed as their infants, in which death was associated with maternal overlay.

This study suggests that a significant number of infant deaths attributed to SIDS may have a definable cause which can be uncovered by careful investigation, and that the incidence figures given for unexplained infant death may be questioned.

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