Toddler's Death Following Transplant
A two-year-old boy in Italy, Domenico, has died after receiving a donor heart that was reportedly damaged during transport, according to the family's lawyer.
Francesco Petruzzi informed reporters that Domenico passed away shortly before 09:30 local time (08:30 GMT) on Saturday. Monaldi Hospital, where Domenico was receiving treatment, stated that he experienced a "sudden and irreversible worsening of his clinical condition."
Details of the Transplant and Organ Transport
The heart transplanted into Domenico in late December was allegedly transported in direct contact with dry ice, which caused severe tissue damage. Prosecutors have initiated an investigation into the incident, and six medical professionals have been formally investigated amid widespread public outrage in Italy.
Petruzzi described the organ as having arrived "burned by frostbite" after being transported over 800 km (490 miles) from Bolzano to Naples in an inappropriate container alongside the ice. The container lacked a thermometer to alert the medical team to the dangerously low temperature.
Medical Condition and Family Response
Domenico had been on life support in Naples for nearly two months. His mother, Patrizia Mercolino, had appealed to the Pope for assistance in saving her son.
"It's over. Domenico is gone," Mercolino told reporters on Saturday.
She announced plans to establish a foundation in Domenico's name.
"The foundation would be for all children who cannot have a transplant and to help all victims of malpractice and medical negligence," the family's lawyer stated.
Official Reactions
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed condolences, stating that the "whole of Italy mourns the loss of little Domenico, a warrior who will never be forgotten."
She wrote on X: "On behalf of myself and the government, I offer my sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy to his mother Patrizia, his father Antonio and all his loved ones.
"I am certain that the competent authorities will shed full light on this terrible incident."
Medical Assessment and Investigation
On Wednesday, a panel of pediatric specialists concluded that Domenico's condition was "not compatible" with another transplant. Doctors had warned that prolonged use of life support might have compromised his lungs, liver, and kidneys.
Petruzzi said at the time the family wanted to see all relevant medical records: "If the time for hope has ended, then the time for responsibility has begun."
Health Ministry Statement
Italy's Health Minister Orazio Schillaci stated earlier this week,
"We must absolutely clarify what happened.
We owe it to the child, to the family, but also to all Italians."
"We have an excellent national health service, which has been able to handle and almost always resolve complex situations. So, I believe citizens should not lose faith."
