Case 12 – History

 

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Case 12

Sudden death


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Brief History

 
The patient was an elderly Caucasian man with diabetes (poorly compliant with insulin regimen), hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, hydrocephalus, and remote and possibly recent strokes of unknown laterality.

The family reports the patient was more sedentary recently, noting a shuffling gait.

Last contact with the decedent was approximately one week prior.

He did not have complaints at that time.

He was found on the floor next to his bed and fecally incontinent after an unwitnessed cardiopulmonary arrest.

The family noted two days of unread mail.

This history is obtained from the family.

 

Next: External exam

Discussion Questions


1. Summarize the history.

2. Discuss adult-onset hydrocephalus.

3. Create a differential diagnosis for the cause of death, based on the history.