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Unexpected Death. Tan Colored Foam From Nose And Mouth. Cause?
My brother whom was 52 y/o died very unexpectedly. He was in good health. Autopsy performed was inconclusive. Tissue samples sent out...no results for 5-6 weeks. When I found him he was in bed still dressed from work. Tannish colored foam coming from what could of been nose or mouth or both. What could of caused this?
Mon, 1 Jul 2013
Hi,
This must have been very distressing for you. The tan-colored fluid may possibly be fluid colored by blood or gastric fluids. Although blood is red when fresh, it rapidly changes color when exposed to air and may appear a different shade of red. Gastric fluids containing bile may appear tan-colored as well.
I think it is impossible to be specific about what the fluid was and the pathologist performing the autopsy will be the best expert to clarify the circumstances of your brother's unfortunate death.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger
MBChB FRCA
This must have been very distressing for you. The tan-colored fluid may possibly be fluid colored by blood or gastric fluids. Although blood is red when fresh, it rapidly changes color when exposed to air and may appear a different shade of red. Gastric fluids containing bile may appear tan-colored as well.
I think it is impossible to be specific about what the fluid was and the pathologist performing the autopsy will be the best expert to clarify the circumstances of your brother's unfortunate death.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger
MBChB FRCA
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