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Cardiac tamponade is a life-threatening condition caused by the accumulation of blood or fluid between the pericardial sac and the heart. The excessive pressure on the heart in cardiac tamponade results in a rapid drop in blood pressure and impairs its ability to function properly. Without timely treatment, cardiac tamponade can lead to death due to its detrimental effects on the heart and overall circulation. In this case study, we reported two cases of middle-aged males in their 60s who sought emergency medical attention due to the onset of acute and intense chest pain accompanied by respiratory distress. Upon conducting an autopsy, profound atherosclerotic changes were identified in major blood vessels. Furthermore, a substantial volume of clotted blood was discovered within the pericardial sac, accompanied by a tear in the ventricular wall. However, cardiac tamponade cases are rare in forensic medicine practice, the classic indicators of hemopericardium and ventricular wall rupture can distinguish the condition.
Thakral et al. (Wed,) studied this question.