Autopsy Findings of Endocardial Fibroelastosis in an Adult

Abstract

Background: Endocardial fibroelastosis (EFE) is commonly presented with diffuse endocardial thickening due to deposition of collagen and elastin, usually affecting the left ventricle of the heart. Case presentation: A 59-year-old gentleman who had no known medical illness had collapsed while performing house chores at home. Autopsy examination showed cyanosed lips and nail beds. The heart weighed 360 gm with distinct presence of whitish, firm and thickened endocardium of the left ventricle. The anterior descending coronary artery showed an almost complete occlusion by atheroma, in keeping with coronary artery disease. Mild pulmonary oedema was present. Histological examination revealed fibroelastosis forming plaque-like covering of the inner ventricle, with patchy myocardial fibrosis. Numerous 'heart failure' cells were present in the intraalveolar spaces. Conclusions: This case showed remarkable autopsy findings of EFE in adult with evidence of congestive heart failure episodes in his lifetime.