Autopsy: Coaxing Secrets From the Dead

Abstract

The word “autopsy” was derived from the Greek autopsia, meaning “to see with one's eyes.” Throughout most of history, autopsy findings were limited to what could be deduced from the evidence available to the naked eye. Today, x-ray and medical technology augment the pathologist's eyes, allowing more than just visual examination of bodies. Autopsy is the gold standard for ascertaining cause of death in American medicine, serving to confirm pathology, clinical diagnoses, and the appropriateness of pre-death treatments. Autopsy findings wind their way to practicing pharmacists via circuitous routes. Researchers and toxicologists use autopsy findings to monitor how drugs really work over the short and long terms. Regulators and legislators connect autopsy findings with police reports, medication error reports, and case reports to develop new labeling or implement stricter laws. Medical chemists use the same findings to seek new and better drugs. Language: en