Unusual sudden death: two case reports of hemorrhage by rupture of varicose veins

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2005 Sep;26(3):294-6. doi: 10.1097/01.paf.0000176283.19127.0e.

Abstract

Although varicose veins are frequent, they are rarely considered lethal. Still, rupture of a varicosity can result in significant and even fatal hemorrhage. External hemorrhage is an unusual complication of this common venous pathology. Reported here are 2 cases of severe external hemorrhage resulting from the perforation of a varicose vein.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Death, Sudden*
  • Forensic Pathology*
  • Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Hemorrhage / mortality*
  • Hemorrhage / pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Varicose Veins / complications*
  • Varicose Veins / pathology