What is an autopsy?

An autopsy is a highly specialized medical examination of a deceased person and should be performed only by a board-certified pathologist.

 

The process involves detailed external and internal examinations of the body.  Each organ is removed from the body systematically, weighed, and examined thoroughly by the pathologist to inspect for signs of natural diseases like cancer, strokes, or coronary artery blockages. The pathologist will also look for any evidence of medical intervention and traumatic injuries to assess if these played any role in the person's death.

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A microscopic examination will be conducted typically within a week following the autopsy in order to confirm/diagnose diseases identified during the autopsy and to look for any diseases invisible to the naked eye.