(L.A.) Joe Martinez, 75, Died in a Hospital

Case Number: 2022-10341

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 75-year-old Latin American male that occurred in a hospital.

The coroner’s office has identified the man as Joe Martinez.

Manner of Death: Natural

Cause of Death A: Multiple Organ Failure

Cause of Death B: Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

RIP JOE MARTINEZ (September 2, 1947 – September 28, 2022)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Wednesday at 8:23 p.m.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is a rare and life-threatening skin condition.

The pathophysiology of TEN involves an immune-mediated response, where cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells release cytotoxic proteins, leading to widespread keratinocyte apoptosis. This results in massive skin detachment and mucosal damage.

The massive release of cytokines due to the immune response in TEN can lead to significant metabolic disturbances, including sepsis and multiorgan failure. These complications contribute to the high mortality rate associated with TEN, which can reach 30-50 percent.