A 32-Year-Old Man Dies Suddenly in His Sleep

A 32-year-old man dies suddenly in his sleep.  An autopsy is performed and the heart is examined for signs of structural cardiac disease.  The heart shows a left ventricle with a large area of apical thinning composed of fibrotic scar tissue.  The mid and basal left ventricular segments show normal myocardial thickness.  The coronary arteries show no evidence of obstructive atherosclerosis.  The right ventricle appears normal in size.  No apparent valve damage is present.  Dilation and wall-thickening of the esophagus is also noted.  Which of the following factors in this patient's medical history would be most helpful in determining the cause of death?

A) Alcohol consumption
B) Location of residence
C) Childhood vaccinations
D) Family history of cardiomyopathy
E) Occupational chemical exposure

Correct Answer:

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