An infantile case of asphyxia with coincidental myocarditis

A six-month-old infant was found dead in a small dustbin in an upside-down position. The police investigation showed that there was no criminal environment including negligence. Analysis at the scene suggested death caused by asphyxia (wedging death). Microscopically, however, diffuse lymphocyte infiltration was observed in the interstitial spaces of the myocardium. Common symptoms of infantile myocarditis are generally non-specific, and the predominant neurological problem is a decrease in activity. The records of rectal temperature suggested that the decedent was dead without a high fever. In the present case, there was no obvious relationship between myocarditis and movement of the infant. We conclude that myocarditis was coincidental to the cause of death by asphyxia.