Rarest fungal myocarditis detected at post-mortem refuted criminal negligence

The small bowel of a patient got perforated during a laparoscopic surgery for long-standing gall stone disease. A poor communication to the relatives about the chances of this complication infuriated them. The non-recovery of the gall stone due to its possible downward migration to the large bowel by the surgical handling compounded the events. The perforation was repaired by another surgery. But, invasive Trichosporon fungal myocarditis caused the death of the diabetic female, otherwise alleged due to medical negligence. The rare fungal invasion was detected by histopathology and microbiology examination at autopsy by medico-legal and surgical specialty experts. The case highlights the value of rapport and empathy with the attendants of the patient in medical practice. The role of the preservation of the biological exhibits and team work in medico-legal autopsy practice is emphasized.