Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Thromboembolism in a Physically Nonprepared Trekker in the Himalayas: An Autopsy Report

Abstract

Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) and Subsequent Pulmonary Thromboembolism (PTE) in high altitude climbers is a well-known concept. The acclimatization process at high altitude is itself a thrombogenic event. Accordingly, when a physically nonprepared individual with preexisting thrombogenic risk factors attempts trekking at high altitude, they may end up with fatal thromboembolic events. Here, we report a case of a low-lander with multiple thrombogenic risk factors who developed DVT and PTE when he went for a trekking trip in the Himalayas. The risk factors, autopsy findings, and possible mechanism of developing fatal pulmonary embolism, in this case, are discussed here.

Keywords

• high altitude
• deep vein thrombosis
• pulmonary thromboembolism
• hypoxia
• virchow’s triad