Natural Causes of Sudden Young Adult Deaths in Forensic Autopsies

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study is to define epidemiologic differences and the most common pathologies that cause nontraumatic sudden, natural death in people in the age group of 18-35 years. Identifying causes of sudden death in this age group is important for determining approaches for prevention. Methods We performed a descriptive statistical methodology, analysis, and interpretation using demographic and autopsy data of sudden deaths. A total of 4034 autopsies were reviewed and 66 cases of sudden death were included in this study. Results We identified 58 (87.9%) subjects in whom the adjudicated cause of death was of potential cardiac etiology. The most common cause of sudden young adult death was ischemic heart disease associated with the atherosclerotic coronary artery (n=24, 36.3%), followed by ischemic heart disease associated with nonatherosclerotic coronary artery disease and dissecting aortic aneurysm. Conclusion We put forth that the main cause of sudden young adult death was cardiac (87.9%) in origin. Of these cardiac causes, ischemic etiology associated with atherosclerosis was the main reason for sudden young adult deaths. In order to reduce the incidence of sudden young adult deaths, major efforts should be directed to prevent atherosclerosis in this age group.

Keywords: autopsy; sudden death; undefined death; unexplained death; young adult.