S2) Learning from the Dead Flashcards Preview

(LUSUMA) Pathological Processes > S2) Learning from the Dead > Flashcards

Flashcards in S2) Learning from the Dead Deck (11)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

What are the 3 types of autopsy conducted today?

A
  • Medicolegal
  • Forensic
  • Consensual (hospital)
2
Q

How is a medicolegal autopsy conducted?

A
  • Autopsy is performed on behalf of HM Coroner
  • No consent needed
3
Q

How is a forensic autopsy conducted?

A
  • Autopsy is performed in cases of suspicious deaths
  • Sub-type of coroner’s post-mortems
4
Q

How is a consensual autopsy conducted?

A
  • Autopsy is conducted with consent from next of kin
  • Examination may be limited
5
Q

Identify the 4 steps involved in an autopsy

A
  • History
  • External examination
  • Internal examination
  • Additional tests
6
Q

Explain the process of external examination

A
  • Ascertain any natural diseases, injuries or medical interventions
  • Perhaps use imaging
7
Q

Explain the process of internal examination

A
  • All internal systems examined in most cases
  • Limited internal examination in consensual cases
8
Q

Identify 5 types of additional tests performed in an autopsy

A
  • Histology
  • Toxicology
  • Biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
9
Q

Briefly describe the following autopsy tests:

  • Toxicology
  • Biochemistry
A
  • Toxicology: blood, urine, bile, therapeutic and recreational drugs
  • Biochemistry: diabetic/alcoholic ketoacidosis, renal failure
10
Q

Briefly describe the following autopsy tests:

  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
A
  • Microbiology: bacteria, viruses, fungi
  • Genetics: DNA fingerprinting
11
Q

What are some common causes of sudden death?

A
  • Extradural haemorrhage
  • Subdural haemorrhage
  • Sub-arachnoid haemorrhage
  • Stroke
  • Coronary thrombosis
  • Valvular disease