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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
10:18
Generation and Characterization of Right Ventricular Myocardial Infarction Induced by Permanent Ligation of the Right Coronary Artery in Mice
Published on: February 1, 2022
Sudden death due to isolated right ventricular infarction: a case report
Francesco Ventura1, Maria Celeste Landolfa, Alessandro Bonsignore
1Department of Legal Medicine, University of Genova, Via de Toni 12, 16132-Genova, Italy. francesco.ventura@unige.it
Summary
Sudden death in a 46-year-old man was caused by isolated right ventricular infarction (RVI) due to acute thrombosis of a non-dominant right coronary artery. This case highlights the importance of thorough postmortem examinations in determining the cause of unexpected fatalities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Pathology
- Forensic Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Isolated right ventricular infarction (RVI) is a rare condition, often linked to coronary artery disease or ventricular hypertrophy.
- While prognosis is typically good, sudden collapse can occur due to arrhythmias, rupture, or pulmonary embolism.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old man with no prior cardiopulmonary history experienced sudden, unexpected death.
- Autopsy revealed central cyanosis, polyvisceral stasis, pulmonary edema, and significant left and right ventricular hypertrophy.
Findings:
- A fresh thrombus was identified in the non-dominant right coronary artery.
- Hemorrhagic infiltration and miliary necrosis were observed in the posterolateral right ventricular wall.
- Toxicology results were negative for drugs and alcohol.
Implications:
- The cause of death was definitively determined as isolated right ventricular infarction.
- This case underscores the critical role of comprehensive postmortem examinations in diagnosing rare cardiovascular events.
- Findings emphasize the association of RVI with ventricular hypertrophy and non-dominant right coronary artery thrombosis.
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