The Case of Ana Estrada: Right to a Dignified Death in Peru

Medical Ethics Case Report

The Case of Ana Estrada: Right to a Dignified Death in Peru

Group Members: Younis, Rahim, Afnan

Ahmed Makaleh, Ahmed Massoud, Mohammed Khalil

Chief Complaint & Background

47-year-old psychologist from Lima, Peru

Diagnosed with polymyositis, a rare and incurable muscle disease

Condition causes chronic inflammation and weakness

Progression of Symptoms

Experienced progressive muscle weakness over time

Lost ability to walk or move freely

Inability to perform self-care tasks independently

Dependency on medical equipment to breathe (tracheostomy)

History of Presenting Illness (Timeline)

Diagnosed in her twenties; gradual worsening over 30 years

Continued working as a psychologist as long as physically possible

Complete loss of autonomy in daily function

2016: Initiated quest for legal control over end-of-life decisions

Medical Concerns & Prognosis

No cure or treatment available to halt disease progression

Medical interventions could only prolong survival, not restore health

Irreversible loss of muscle function

The Core Ethical Dilemma

Quantity of Life

Standard medical practice focuses on preserving life at all costs.

Quality of Life

Ana experienced ongoing physical and emotional suffering without dignity.

Legal Barriers in Peru

Assisted death defined as illegal under Peruvian penal code

Direct conflict between statutory law and patient autonomy

Court faced the challenge of interpreting law vs. fundamental human rights

Ana's Argument for Autonomy

Ana argued for the right to control her own body and end suffering

Claimed that 'dignified life' implies the right to a 'dignified death'

Case raised national ethical debate involving Ombudsperson support

Judicial Resolution (2022 Ruling)

2022: Supreme Court granted historical legal exemption

Doctors permitted to assist under strict supervision without criminal penalty

Required adherence to rigorous medical and legal protocols

Conclusion & Legacy

The procedure was successfully concluded in April 2024

Marks a landmark case for dignity and patient rights in Peru

Established a precedent for future bioethical debates in Latin America

Thank You