sudden cardiac death
Also written as: SCD — sudden cardiac death
Unexpected death from cardiac causes occurring within one hour of symptom onset in apparently healthy individuals.
Full Definition
An unexpected natural death from cardiac causes, occurring within one hour of symptom onset in a person with known or unknown cardiac disease, but where the time and mode of death are unexpected. In forensic contexts, sudden cardiac death may be defined as death occurring within 24 hours of symptom onset. Most cases result from ventricular arrhythmias in the setting of structural heart disease, particularly coronary artery disease in adults and cardiomyopathies in younger individuals. Autopsy findings may include acute coronary syndromes, cardiomyopathy, or channelopathies with structurally normal hearts.
Usage
Usage note: Use specific time criteria (1 hour vs 24 hours) based on clinical or forensic context.
In Context
- "Molecular autopsy was performed to investigate possible channelopathy in this case of sudden cardiac death." — Forensic pathology report
- "Family history of sudden cardiac death prompted genetic counseling and screening." — Clinical genetics consultation