PP: Learning From The Dead

Question 1

What is a medicolegal autopsy?

Answer 1

When an autopsy is performed on behalf of HM coroner and no consent is needed.

Question 2

What is a forensic autopsy?

Answer 2

An autopsy carried out when a death is suspicious, as a legal requirement.

Question 3

What is a consent (hospital) autopsy?

Answer 3

When an autopsy is carried out after receiving the consent from the deceased next of kin. The next of kin are able to limit the examination if they wish.

Question 4

What is involved in an autopsy?

Answer 4

• History
• External examination
• Internal examination

Question 5

Name 5 additional tests that can be performed.

Answer 5

1. Histology
2. Toxicology
3. Biochemistry
4. Microbiology
5. Genetics