Research Article - Biomedical Research (2024) Volume 35, Issue 2

Histopathological study of adrenal glands in autopsy cases of flame burn cases: An original research study in North Western India at a tertiary health care center.

Introduction: Burn injuries, akin to other forms of trauma, elicit a systemic inflammatory response mediated by a plethora of mediators including prostaglandins, interleukins, and other inflammatory agents. This response is not confined to a solitary organ system; rather, it incites a multi-organ systemic reaction. Notable observations within this scope are adrenal hemorrhage, necrosis, and congestion. The etiology of adrenal hemorrhage in burn victims is inherently complex and multifaceted. This study was designed to investigate the histopathological alterations in the adrenal glands subsequent to lethal flame burns. Materials and methods: The research methodology employed was an observational, descriptive analysis conducted within the autopsy facilities of SMS Medical College. Decedents presenting with a burn body surface area exceeding 35%, as determined by Wallace’s Rule of Nine, were incorporated into the study. A total of 80 cases was meticulously selected for this investigation. Observations: Adrenal congestion was identified in 50 cases, succeeded by adrenal necrosis in 25 cases. The prevalence of adrenal hemorrhage, congestion, and necrosis was most notable in patients who endured for a duration of 4 to 7 days post-injury, with 10, 16, and 12 cases respectively. Necrosis was predominantly observed in individuals who succumbed to shock, accounting for 10 cases. Conclusion: Adrenal hemorrhage has the potential to induce adrenal insufficiency, which may escalate to fatality in burn cases. The histopathological examination of adrenal tissues is instrumental in delineating the cause of death. It is imperative for clinicians to meticulously monitor and manage adrenocortical functions in burn victims, as such vigilance and intervention are pivotal in reducing mortality rates.

Author(s): Niraj Kumar, Vivek Mangare, Deepali Pathak

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