Three cases of butane intoxication with fatal outcome are described. Butane was applied as a gaseous spray from the lighter refill can. With the exception of non-specific signs of asphyxiation such as tiny subepicardial and subpleural haemorrhages and lung oedema, haemorrhagic microruptures of the myocardial fibres were found. The authors have no plausible explanation regarding this development. Any mechanical damage of the myocardium can clearly be excluded.

        Key words: Butane – toxicology – sniffing – inhalation – heart muscle damage.