NEVER UNDERESTIMATE MILD RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS IN CHILDREN AFFECTED BY PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME - A CASE REPORT

L. Panata, I. Mercurio, M. Lancia, M. Bacci

Abstract: Prader-Willi syndrome is a rare disease linked to chromosome 15, with morpho-functional features which place patients’ lives at risk. We present the case of a 4-year-old boy affected by Prader-Willi syndrome, who died, in apparent good health, as reported by his mother, except for a common cold, diagnosed by a doctor few days before his death. Some months before, he was admitted to hospital with infectious pneumonia which was successfully treated. Forensic pathologist who performed the autopsy attributed the cause of death to respiratory insufficiency caused by acute inflammation on chronically impaired lungs. The reported case serves as a reminder to never underestimate the presence of mild respiratory and infectious symptoms in children affected by Prader-Willi Syndrome
Keywords: Prader-Willi syndrome; respiratory failure; forensic pathology