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Pulmonary embolism: a rare cause of sudden infant death
Geoffroy Lorin de la Grandmaison1, Michel Durigon
1Department of Pathology, Raymond Poincarè Hospital, Paris-Quest University, Garches, France. glorin@club-internet.fr
Insights
Pulmonary embolism is rare in infants. A 12-month-old boy died from acute pulmonary embolism, likely due to dehydration-induced hyperosmolality, highlighting infant risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Cardiovascular Pathology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) is uncommon in infants, presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Gastroenteritis and otitis are common pediatric illnesses that can lead to dehydration.
Observation:
- A 12-month-old boy with improving gastroenteritis and otitis experienced sudden death.
- Autopsy revealed signs of dehydration and acute left pulmonary embolism as the cause of death.
- Thrombosis of the inferior vena cava extending into renal veins was identified.
Findings:
- Plasma hyperosmolality secondary to dehydration may have promoted venous thrombosis formation.
- The infant's death was attributed to acute pulmonary embolism.
- Inferior vena cava and renal vein thrombosis were noted.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for severe thrombotic events, including pulmonary embolism, in infants with dehydration.
- Understanding risk factors, including genetic predispositions, is crucial for preventing and managing PE in children.
- Early recognition and management of dehydration are vital in pediatric care to mitigate thrombotic risks.
Abstract:
Pulmonary embolism can be observed at any age, but it occurs very rarely in the infant. The authors report the case of a 12-month-old boy who suddenly died during clinical improvement of gastroenteritis associated with otitis. Autopsy showed signs of dehydration and acute left pulmonary embolism, which was the cause of death. Thrombosis of the inferior vena cava extending into renal veins was seen. In this case, plasma hyperosmolality caused by dehydration might have favored the formation of venous thromboses. The various risk factors of pulmonary embolism in the child are discussed, including genetic factors.