Unusual case of a fatal upper esophageal trauma caused by a toothpick.

The authors report the case of the unexpected death of a fifty-year-old female found by her partner in the bathroom floor. External examination revealed some contusions dispersed by different corporal areas and an unusually placed green discoloration of the anterior cervical region. After neck dissection and opening the esophagus, a three and a half centimeter wooden toothpick fragment was found at the upper region, covered by a purulent substance associated with puncture wounds.

Detection and Intervention Strategies by Primary Health Care Professionals in Suspected Elder Abuse.

Introduction: Primary health care professionals are in a privileged position to recognize and manage cases of suspected elder abuse. The purpose of this study was to provide some insight of these professionals' views and knowledge on this subject.

Material And Methods: A questionnaire was elaborated and sent to physicians and nursing staff practicing in 12 different health care units in Coimbra.