Abstract:
Sudden unexpected deaths in apparently healthy adults in remote places often lead to
speculation of foul play. Sudden unexpected natural death (SUND) is defined as natural death occurring
instantaneously or within 24 hours of onset of symptoms, in a patient who may or may not have a known
pre-existing disease but in whom mode and time of death is unexpected. Common causes of sudden
death are coronary heart disease, intracranial hemorrhage, meningitis, pneumonia etc. Here, we are
reporting a case of sudden death of a young adult, where the investigating police officer suspected
electrocution and fellow workers who witnessed the death were unable to explain the circumstances of
death, as the deceased screamed and collapsed. Preliminary autopsy was unrewarding.
Histopathological investigation helped to decide the cause of death. With this case we have reviewed and
discussed sudden death due to malaria.
