Sudden Unexpected Death from Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: a Case Report

Abstract

A sudden death without cause is considered an unnatural death by law, which requires a forensic pathologist to perform an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a common cause of sudden death. Although it is less common than diseases of the circulatory system, it is of great importance in identifying the site of acute bleeding that can lead to death in a short time. Mallory-Weiss syndrome is a tear in the junction between the esophagus and stomach that causes large amounts of rapid bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Many cases were frequently found among those who experienced severe vomiting after alcohol consumption. This article reports a case that underwent an examination at the scene and an autopsy. The cause of death is massive blood loss in the upper gastrointestinal tract from the torn esophageal mucosa. The general physician should keep in mind that Mallory-Weiss syndrome can cause severe vomiting of fresh blood, leading to sudden and unexpected death.