Silent killer - a case report

Mohd Mussadik, Umul Khairil Fatimah and Hasim, Husna Syaza and Zaki, Hafizatul Solehah and Chng, Kay Ly (2024) Silent killer - a case report. Malaysian Journal of Pathology, 46 (1). p. 209. ISSN 0126-8635

	PDF (Case Report Abstract) Restricted to Registered users only until November 2024. Download (168kB) | Request a copy
	PDF (Case Report Abstract) - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only until November 2024. Download (456kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

ntroduction: This case report discusses the challenging situation forensic pathologists face when dealing with sudden unexpected death in a healthy young adult. While thyroid diseases rarely result in death, they can be a potential cause in some cases. The report highlights the importance of considering thyroid pathology as a possible factor in cases where all other potential causes have been ruled out. Case: A young adult male from Bangladesh was found unconscious in bed. No external injuries were observed, but the thyroid was obscured due to a cricothyroidotomy performed during resuscitation. Gross examination of other organs, including the heart, appeared normal. However, histological analysis revealed lymphocytic infiltration with significant destruction of follicles in the thyroid, as well as fibrotic changes in the SA node. Unfortunately, thyroid function tests were not conducted initially. While the exact cause of death remained unascertained, the possibility of lymphocytic thyroiditis as a contributing factor was considered. Discussion: Lymphocytic thyroiditis should be considered as a potential differential diagnosis for sudden unexpected death. Microscopic evaluation of the thyroid is often overlooked if gross findings are unremarkable and the patient’s history does not suggest thyroid disease. Therefore, routine microscopic examination of the thyroid is advised in cases of sudden death, as many cases present without significant clinical symptoms and normal gross findings. Ultimately, it is important to establish guideline for performing standard autopsies, particularly in cases of sudden unexpected death in young adults. It can help ensure thorough investigations and consideration of potential causes, including thyroid pathology.

Item Type:	Article (Abstract)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Umul Khairil Fatimah Mohd Mussadik, Husna Syaza Hasim, Hafizatul Solehah Zaki, Kay Ly Chng Forensic Unit, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PALM) Department, Sultan Ahmad Shah Medical Centre @International Islamic University Malaysia (SASMEC @IIUM)
Subjects:	R Medicine > RB Pathology
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	UNSPECIFIED
Depositing User:	Dr. Umul Khairil Fatimah Mohd Mussadik
Date Deposited:	08 Oct 2024 10:31
Last Modified:	08 Oct 2024 11:29
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/114882

Actions (login required)

View Item