ABSTRACT
Mr M, who died at 105 years of age, was in his usual state of health until 2 years before death, when dyspnea appeared when walking. Within 2 weeks he was in acute pulmonary edema and was hospitalized. On admission, his blood pressure was 100/70 mm Hg, heart rate 100 bpm, and his temperature 35.7°C (96.3°F). Electrocardiogram and serum troponin were consistent with acute myocardial infarction and he was treated accordingly. His dyspnea and pulmonary rales gradually disappeared with medication for heart failure. Thereafter, and for the remainder of his life, he was at home, taking chronic heart failure medicines and using oxygen therapy for short periods in the evening. He was in his usual routine until his wife died 2 months before his own death. Her demise led to his depression and lack of desire to live.
