Acute Haemorrhagic Pancreatitis Presenting as Sudden Death

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis is a catastrophic event for human life. It can cause acute and sudden inflammation of the pancreas with a danger of involving peripancreatic tissue and other organ systems. Acute pancreatitis symptoms range from mild disease to fatal outcomes in some cases. In such cases, the pain and collapse are so quick that the event quickly follows death. Multisystem organ failure is the main reason for early deaths. Acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis is not a common cause of sudden death, preceded by non-specific abdominal pain and vomiting symptoms. We here discuss the case of a young male who presented to the emergency department in an unconscious state with a history of severe abdominal pain. Autopsy examination revealed features of acute pancreatitis on gross and histopathological examination. Acute pancreatitis is a severe, life-threatening condition and most deaths are sudden and unexpected. Hence, a detailed investigation is required for the diagnosis.