DNA analysis in post mortems of young sudden death victims

ESC Guidelines published recommend DNA analysis as a fundamental component of post mortem assessment in young sudden death victims. Identification of a genetic cause helps to quickly diagnose and protect relatives. The Guidelines focus on preventing sudden cardiac death in patients with ventricular arrhythmias.

“For the first time these guidelines have incorporated the concept proposed by several consensus documents that DNA analysis should be a fundamental component of post mortem assessment in young sudden death victims,” said Professor Silvia Priori, Chairperson of the guidelines Task Force. “The molecular analysis helps to identify the presence of genetic diseases that can occur in a structurally normal heart and therefore cannot be identified during autopsy. Identification of a genetic cause as a substrate for a sudden death facilitates the early diagnosis of affected relatives and may help protect them through a personalised approach that spans from lifestyle modifications to the early use of therapies.” European Society of Cardiologists