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International Journal of Legal Medicine

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01-03-2014 | Original Article

Brain weight in completed suicide and other cases of death–comparison of recent and previous studies

Authors: B. Zedler, B. Flaig, H. Ackermann, M. Parzeller, H. Bratzke

Published in: International Journal of Legal Medicine | Issue 2/2014

Abstract

Background

The weight of human brains is subject of numerous scientific research studies particularly in anatomy, pathology, and forensic medicine. Just a few investigations deal with a possible correlation between psychiatric disorders, especially suicidality, and brain weight. The results are contradictory.

Aims

This study aims to find out if postmortem brain weight is higher in suicide victims considering the discrepancies of previous studies.

Method

In a retrospective study, the weight of brains obtained by autopsies performed in the Institute of Legal Medicine in Frankfurt, Germany, was evaluated. Data of 99 suicide cases (64 males, 35 females) were compared with those obtained from similar number cases of sudden death in a matched pair analysis. In each case, body weight, height, and body mass index were also taken into account.

Results

No significant differences in brain weight were found in suicide victims compared to those of the control group.

Conclusions

The brain weight depends on various parameters such as gender, age, body height, and weight. The selection criteria for suicide cases as well as for the corresponding control population are essential in evaluating the brain weight in suicide.

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Title: Brain weight in completed suicide and other cases of death–comparison of recent and previous studies
Authors: B. Zedler
B. Flaig
H. Ackermann
M. Parzeller
H. Bratzke
Publication date: 01-03-2014
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Journal of Legal Medicine / Issue 2/2014
Print ISSN: 0937-9827
Electronic ISSN: 1437-1596
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00414-013-0913-9

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Brain weight in completed suicide and other cases of death–comparison of recent and previous studies

Abstract

Background

Aims

Method

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Aims

Method

Results

Conclusions

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