THE SEYCHELLES - An autopsy report reveals that vacationing sisters from Eden Prairie died in the Seychelles Islands from fluid in their lungs, a condition commonly known as Acute Pulmonary Edema.
The report, released by Police in the Republic of Seychelles, details the autopsies done on 42-year-old Robin Marie Korkki, and her 37-year-old sister Anne Marie Korkki. While the cause of death for both sisters was Acute Pulmonary Edema, Cerebral Edema was also listed as a contributing cause for Anne Marie.
The Mayo Clinic Website lists the following definition for Pulmonary Edema:
Pulmonary edema is a condition caused by excess fluid in the lungs. This fluid collects in the numerous air sacs in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.
In most cases, heart problems cause pulmonary edema. But fluid can accumulate for other reasons, including pneumonia, exposure to certain toxins and medications, trauma to the chest wall, and exercising or living at high elevations.
Pulmonary edema that develops suddenly (acute pulmonary edema) is a medical emergency requiring immediate care. Although pulmonary edema can sometimes prove fatal, the outlook improves when you receive prompt treatment for pulmonary edema along with treatment for the underlying problem. Treatment for pulmonary edema varies depending on the cause but generally includes supplemental oxygen and medications.
Cerebral Edema is defined as the following.
Excessive fluid in the brain (cerebral edema). Excessive fluid causes pressure to build in your brain, which can displace brain tissue outside of the space it normally occupies (herniation). Cerebral edema can also deprive your brain of oxygen.
The autopsy report again emphasizes there were no visible signs of injury or trauma on the bodies of the sisters. Results of toxicology tests are still pending.
The release from police also details the travel itinerary of the Korkki sisters, who began a tour of African on Sept. 1. They visited Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar before flying to Seychelles Sept. 15.
Robin and Anne Marie Korkki were discovered dead in their villa by staff at the Maia hotel on Sept. 22.
Seychelles Police say the case is high priority, and that investigators are receiving help from a number of international partners.
