The Role of Molecular Autopsy in Concealed Cardiomyopathies.

A conclusive and early diagnosis of cardiomyopathy is essential for implementing preventive therapeutic measures and, therefore, reducing the risk of malignant arrhythmias and even sudden cardiac death. Occasionally, this lethal event can be the first manifestation of cardiomyopathy, with or without...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Campuzano O, Tirón C, Martínez-Barrios E, Greco A, Cruzalegui J, Chipa F, Cesar S, Merchan EF, Coll M, Fernández-Falgueras A, Brugada R, Ortega M, Molina N, Barberia E, Toro R, Oliva A, Grassi S, Sarquella-Brugada G
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Fundació Sant Joan de Déu
Repositorio:r-FSJD. Repositorio Institucional de Producción Científica de la Fundació Sant Joan de Déu
OAI Identifier:oai:fsjd.fundanetsuite.com:p29489
Acceso en línea:https://fsjd.fundanetsuite.com/Publicaciones/ProdCientif/PublicacionFrw.aspx?id=29489
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:arrhythmias
concealed cardiomyopathies
forensics
genetics
molecular autopsy
sudden cardiac death
Descripción
Sumario:A conclusive and early diagnosis of cardiomyopathy is essential for implementing preventive therapeutic measures and, therefore, reducing the risk of malignant arrhythmias and even sudden cardiac death. Occasionally, this lethal event can be the first manifestation of cardiomyopathy, with or without a clear structural defect. In cases of sudden death, especially in young patients, the autopsy may be ambiguous and therefore lack a definitive diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, although it can sometimes identify signs that lead us to suspect it. This is one of the current challenges of forensic science, where occult cardiomyopathies often remain unidentified without additional testing that is not routinely included in current forensic protocols. In this protocol, it is crucial to perform a molecular autopsy but also to include additional data, especially family history, that will help conclude or at least suspect this entity. Obtaining this diagnosis or suspicion of concealed cardiomyopathy not only provides an answer to the unexpected death but also helps the relatives determine the cause of death. In addition, physicians should initiate a family assessment to identify other family members who may be at risk early and adopt personalized preventive measures.