Autopsy

Autopsies are needed for their continued contribution to medical science and the following reasons: (1) compliance with medical examiner’s requirements; (2) clarification in puzzling cases; (3) delineate suspected or unsuspected medical conditions; (4) provide useful information to the family; (5) reassure survivors of the cause of death; (6) collect statistical data; (7) define environmental and occupational hazards; (8) provide legal and forensic information; and (9) enhance clinical, pathological, and medical education. [Sources: Junkerman, LJ and Schiedermayer, DL, Practical Ethics for Students, Interns, and Residents: A Short Reference Manual. (Frederick, Md: University Publishing Group, 1994), 34-37. Perkins, HS, Supick, JD, and Hazuda, HP, "Autopsy Decisions: The Possibility of Conflicting Cultural Attitudes," Journal of Clinical Ethics 4 (1993):145-54. Gonzalez-Villalpando, C, "The Influence of Culture in the Authorization of an Autopsy," Journal of Clinical Ethics 4 (1993): 192-94. Orlowski, JP and Vinicky, JK, "Conflicting Cultural Attitudes About Autopsies," Journal of Clinical Ethics 4 (1993): 195-97.]

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