The autopsy in cases of unascertained sudden death |
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Authors: | CM Milroy |
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Institution: | aDepartment of Forensic Pathology and Legal Medicine, Forensic Science Service, The Medico-Legal Centre, Watery Street, Sheffield S3 7ES, UK |
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Abstract: | After a properly conducted autopsy, a small proportion of cases will not reveal a cause of death. This is probably of the order of 2–5%. However, before the death is recorded as unascertained, it is important that appropriate ancillary investigations have been conducted. These tests include toxicology, microbiology and genetic testing where appropriate. The history and scene examination findings must be known, and the possibility of a hidden homicide reasonably excluded. However, even with a full and thorough investigation, some natural disease processes such as cardiac conduction abnormalities and sudden death in epilepsy will result in a negative autopsy. If investigated properly, a cause of death may still be identified for decomposed bodies. |
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Keywords: | Autopsy Necropsy Unascertained death Natural Negative Post-mortem toxicology Unnatural |
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