ABSTRACT
Ascending aortic aneurysm of the thorax is a condition characterized by an increase in the diameter of the ascending aorta between the aortic valve and the brachiocephalic artery. Most patients with ascending aortic aneurysm are asymptomatic and do not require treatment; the rates of dissection, rupture, and mortality are also low. In this report, we describe the autopsy findings in a case of sudden death due to acute myocardial infarction secondary to the previously asymptomatic, unruptured, and undissected aortic aneurysm of the thoracic ascending aorta extending to the sinus of Valsalva. The findings in this case emphasize the importance of preventive management of asymptomatic ascending aortic aneurysms, and possible mechanisms of sudden cardiac death in patients with uncomplicated ascending aortic aneurysm is also discussed.
ABSTRACT
Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare but serious complication that primarily occurs in patients with long bone fractures. Herein, we report a case of sudden death due to FES, which was later confirmed by autopsy. The clinical course and pathological findings of the case are also presented. A 79-year-old male pedestrian was struck by a car while crossing a crosswalk, and due to the impact, he flew 4.5 meters away. He was admitted to the emergency room and diagnosed with an intertrochanteric fracture of the right femur. Upon admission, he had clear consciousness and normal vital signs. The patient died 27 hours after trauma during surgery for a right femur fracture. Histological examination revealed fat droplets in lung tissue. The diagnosis of FES was confirmed based on clinical and histological findings.