A case of fatal intracranial haemorrhage due to ruptured berry aneurysm

Abstract

Background: Sudden unexplained deaths in consequence of cerebral causes in adults are a critical section of the medicolegal practice. Berry aneurysms are eminent entities that cause a serious medical condition, like a haemorrhagic stroke, which leads to brain damage and may account for a quarter of cerebrovascular deaths. These aneurysms arise no symptoms for a protracted period or could rupture and bring out intracranial haemorrhage and sudden natural death, thus arousing suspicion. Aim of the study: This case highlights one of the causes of sudden natural death due to cranial haemorrhage. Methods: Our case was male 40 years old was found dead on the floor of the bathroom in his home. He has no history of smoking or medical record with an average body built, no risk factors were found. The prosecution report stated that the manner of death was unexplained. The case had undergone full external examination and X-ray for the whole body then medicolegal autopsy. Laboratory investigations were done to show if there was any drug was taken to assist or cause death. We had reviewed the literature concerning the case and attempted to confirm the legal scenario. Results: On external examination, abrasion was found on the nose and knee. The xray didn’t demonstrate any fractures or foreign body. Urine drug screen revealed negative results for the drug of abuse. The autopsy showed rupture of berry aneurysm at the circle of Willis which and subarachnoid haemorrhage in addition to intraventricular and pontine haemorrhages. Conclusions: Meticulous examination of such cases could lead to a more precise task of the reason for death, which may have significant implications for surviving family members, and could initiate a better comprehension of the natural history of these intracranial lesions. Keywords: Aneurysm; Circle of wills; Intracranial haemorrhage; Sudden death; Hypertension.