A 62-year-old man is found dead in his apartment. An autopsy shows diffuse cerebral edema, laryngeal edema, and hyperinflated lungs. Which of the following is the most likely cause of death in this patient?

Question

A 62-year-old man is found dead in his apartment.  An autopsy shows diffuse cerebral edema, laryngeal edema, and hyperinflated lungs.  Which of the following is the most likely cause of death in this patient?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Anaphylaxis (type 1 hypersensitivity) can quickly lead to respiratory compromise (eg, bronchospasm, oropharyngeal edema) and distributive shock.  The most common autopsy findings include upper airway edema, hyperinflation of the lungs from airway obstruction, and cerebral edema from hypoxia.

A 62-Year-Old Man Is Found Dead in His Apartment