Heavy metal levels in postmortem blood samples: Unraveling links to suicide and neurological impacts

Erkman F. T., YILDIRIM M. Ş., SABUNCUOĞLU S., Demi̇r C., Deği̇rmenci̇ B., Gi̇rgi̇n G., ...More

Forensic Science International, vol.367, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 367
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2025.112390
  • Journal Name: Forensic Science International
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, CINAHL, Criminal Justice Abstracts, EBSCO Legal Collection, EBSCO Legal Source, EMBASE, Veterinary Science Database, DIALNET
  • Keywords: Heavy metals, ICP-MS, Neurotoxicity, Suicidal behavior, Trace elements, Urban exposure
  • Uşak University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Objective: The study investigates the relationship between heavy metal exposure and suicidal behavior. Specifically, it examines whether postmortem blood levels of heavy metals and trace elements can serve as distinguishing factors in suicide cases. Methods: A total of 108 postmortem cases were examined, consisting of 70 suicide cases and 38 non-suicidal control cases. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Cadmium (Cd), Antimony (Sb), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Selenium (Se), Molybdenum (Mo), Cobalt (Co), Arsenic (As), Nickel (Ni), and Mercury (Hg) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Statistical analyses, including Mann-Whitney U tests and multivariate linear regression, were performed to assess differences between the groups. Results: Significant differences in the levels of Cu, Zn, Mo, Co, and As were observed between the suicide and control groups. Individuals residing in urban areas showed higher levels of Cd and Hg compared to those in rural areas. Elevated concentrations of heavy metals and trace elements, particularly Cd, Hg, Cu, Zn, and As, were associated with suicide cases. Conclusion: The study suggests that heavy metal exposure, especially in urban environments, may play a significant role in suicidal behavior. The findings highlight the potential of certain heavy metal and trace element levels in postmortem blood samples as distinctive markers for suicide cases.