Finding into death of Filippo Pignataro

52y · Male·Pulmonary thromboembolism

A 52-year-old man with autism, intellectual disability, and multiple comorbidities died from pulmonary thromboembolism at home. He developed respiratory symptoms on 24 March, was managed in primary care with telehealth and face-to-face consultations, was hospitalised with bacterial pneumonia 31 March to 6 April, and collapsed on 10 April in cardiac arrest. Paramedics identified suspected pulmonary embolism but the patient resisted transport due to hospital phobia. Post-mortem confirmed bilateral pulmonary embolism. The coroner found medical care was appropriate. Clinicians should consider VTE risk stratification in immobilised patients recovering from respiratory illness, particularly those with reduced mobility or comorbidities, and document risk-benefit discussions when patients refuse recommended hospital care.