Found alive after declared dead: Scientific basis underlying Lazarus phenomenon

Abstract

Autoresuscitation, also referred to as Lazarus phenomenon, is a rare occurrence whereby a patient may experience restoration of spontaneous circulation and signs of life after a diagnosis of “death” following unsuccessful cardiopulmonary resuscitation. “Found alive after declared dead” has often appeared as sensational news on print, electronic, and social media, and the medical fraternity falls prey to media trials and court enquiry, but this rare phenomenon remains underreported in the medical literature. In this article, we review the reports of Lazarus phenomenon in the medical literature and discuss possible explanations to throw some light on the medicolegal and social implications of this condition.

Keywords

• autoresuscitation
• brain death
• lazarus phenomenon