Sudden death due to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

This case studies the clinical, laboratory, and pathologic findings observed in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Although TTP is a well-recognized syndrome, it is frequently undetected antemortem and represents a rare cause of sudden death. We recently were involved in a case of TTP in which an 18-year-old woman with no previous history died suddenly. The case was referred to our office for consultation because of a recent history of methamphetamine abuse. We report herewith our approach to the diagnostic workup of TTP and review relevant literature.

Sudden death due to anomalous right coronary artery in a 26-year-old marathon runner.

Sudden death due to an anomalous right coronary artery is reported. Once considered a normal variant, there is now evidence that origin of the right coronary artery from the left sinus of Valsalva may cause morbidity and mortality. Salient features of the condition are discussed.