Sudden Unexpected Death due to Brainstem Hemorrhage Associated with Cerebral Venous Malformation

Cerebral venous malformations (CVMs) generally remain silent and asymptomatic in the vast majority of cases. CVM-associated lethal intracerebral hemorrhage is extremely rare.

Here we presented a case with chest tightness, shortness of breath, fever and convulsive seizures. Chest and brain computed tomography, and laboratory testing were performed.

The patient suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and expired despite aggressive resuscitation efforts. Autopsy analysis revealed a venous vascular malformation located in the pons and medulla oblongata, and brainstem hemorrhage and hematoma formation in the surrounding areas.

CVMs, though exceptionally rare, can lead to fatal hemorrhage and therefore warrant heightened clinical vigilance. Proactive measures should be implemented to mitigate potential risk factors for this severe complication. When evaluating adult patients with recurrent convulsive episodes, clinicians need to consider prompt neuroimaging to rule out life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage.