Sudden death due to the atrioventricular node contusion: Three cases report
Wenhe Li1, Lin Zhang, Yue Liang
1Department of Forensic Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Tongji Medical College Department of Pathology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Techology, PR China.
Medicine
|January 11, 2017
Summary
Atrioventricular node (AVN) contusion from blunt chest impact is a rare, fatal condition. Autopsies revealed posterior AVN hemorrhages as the cause of death, emphasizing the need for awareness in forensic pathology.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Cardiovascular Pathology
Background:
- Atrioventricular node (AVN) contusion is a rare, fatal condition causing cardiogenic shock and arrhythmia.
- Diagnosis is challenging due to rapid development and asymptomatic presentation.
Observation:
- Three cases of death following blunt chest impact are presented.
- Autopsies revealed external bruising, sternal/rib fractures, and posterior atrioventricular junction hemorrhages.
Findings:
- Histological examination confirmed cardiac contusion on the posterior atrioventricular junction surface.
- Death was definitively attributed to Atrioventricular node contusion.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical role of autopsy and histological examination in determining cause of death.
- Forensic pathologists must be aware of posterior atrioventricular junction injuries in blunt chest trauma cases.
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