A case of altruistic suicide by severe carbon monoxide poisoning

Abstract

Carbon monoxide poisoning (CO) is a lethal form of suicide. We present a case of a 52-year-old otherwise healthy male who attempted suicide by CO poisoning due to altruistic intentions. The patient survived and was doing well on follow-up over 2 months after discharge. The aims of this case report are to discuss the psychiatric and medical sequelae of CO poisoning and to revisit the sociological concept of suicide, focusing on altruistic suicides.