Standard autopsy and diagnostic procedure in forensic departments in cases of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in individuals under 40 years of age.

Abstract

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in individuals younger than 40 years has a heritable cause in a significant part of the cases. Identification of SCD, post mortem genetic analysis, and the cardiological screening examination in victim´s relatives represent an important diagnostic tool for the primary prevention of cardiac arrest. Based on global and European recommendations, cases of sudden cardiac death in individuals under the age of 40 with negative or ambiguous autopsy findings, or findings suspicious for hereditary cardiovascular disease, should be investigated using molecular genetic methods. Based on European guidelines, the Czech Society of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology has developed its own recommended procedure, which summarizes the identification of these cases, the optimal autopsy procedure, including the collection of material, and a summary of other necessary actions for performing a post mortem genetic examination in a person who has died suddenly. Complex examination of these cases requires multicentric and multidisciplinary collaboration.