Sudden death due to cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: An autopsy case report

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pathology
• Hepatology

Background:

• Cirrhosis cardiomyopathy involves cardiac dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis.
• It presents as impaired heart contractility and relaxation, with electrophysiological disturbances.
• The condition often occurs without a known underlying cardiac disease.

Observation:

• A 44-year-old woman with no prior medical history experienced sudden death during physical activity.
• Autopsy showed an enlarged heart with heterogeneous myocardium and a heavy, variegated liver.
• Histology revealed myocardial fibrosis, disturbed left ventricular texture with storiform patterns, and hypertrophic cardiomyocytes.

Findings:

• Microscopic liver examination confirmed cirrhosis of unknown etiology.
• The cause of death was attributed to arrhythmia secondary to cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.
• The case demonstrates cardiac and hepatic pathology in sudden, unexpected death.

Implications:

• This case underscores the significance of thorough pathological examination in diagnosing cirrhotic cardiomyopathy.
• It highlights the potential for cirrhotic cardiomyopathy to cause sudden death, even in seemingly healthy individuals.
• Considering cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is crucial for unexplained sudden deaths in patients with or without known cirrhosis.