Tragic Luger death: neurological lessons

I have been asked to weigh in on the potential causes of death of Olympic luger Nodar Kumaritashvili's.

As neurologists (and doctors in general), we think in terms of a differential diagnosis. We think in terms of what could potentially cause a given problem.

Here are some potential causes for his tragic death (at over 90 mph):

1) Subdural hematoma -- unlikely to kill so fast.
2.) Intracerebral hemorrhage.

3.) Epidural hematoma.

4.) Axonal shearing injury.

5.) Cervical (neck) fracture with damage to the sympathetic fibers to the heart.

6.) Voodoo death (death by fright) as we know he expressed fear the day before -- remember our discussion surrounding Michael Jackson's death:

http://neurologique.blogspot.com/2009/06/michael-jackson-voodoo-death-and.html

7.) Direct trauma to the chest -- stopping the heart.

For a full version of the interview I gave, please see:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2708371/exact_cause_of_lugers_death_doctor.html?cat=70

Our hearts and thoughts are with the family of this great Georgian athlete.

- Dr. Daniel Kantor, MD BSE
Medical Director
Neurologique

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