Pattern of Occurrence in Cases of Sudden Natural Deaths - A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Sudden death is said to be sudden or unexpected when the victim not known to have been suffering from any dangerous disease, injury or poisoning is found dead or dies within 24 hours of the onset of terminal illness (WHO). Incidences of sudden natural deaths are increasing now a days and specifically in healthy young individuals. Our study may help to provide epidemiological data regarding the sudden death so that appropriate action can be made to reduce the morbidity and mortality. Aim: This retrospective study was undertaken to analyse the pattern of occurrence in cases of sudden natural deaths autopsied at Mortuary, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study had been conducted for the period of one year on the autopsy cases brought to Mortuary, Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai. During study period total of 4110 autopsies were conducted, out of which 224 cases (6%) were sudden deaths. Result: Most of the cases were from the 41-50 years age group. Of the 224 cases, 119 cases were due to diseases of cardiovascular system and 43 cases were due to diseases of respiratory system. Conclusion: We observed that sudden death cases were higher in younger age group and cardiovascular system was most commonly involved.