[Histopathological examinations in forensic medical expertise]

The report reviews the role of histopathology in legal proceedings. The author emphasizes the probative value of results of histopathological analyses, carried out supplementary to post-mortem macroscopic examinations. The issue of recommendations for such examinations is addressed, and the possibilities of employing histopathology for purposes other than mere concluding the cause and mechanism of death are stressed. The author states that histothanatological studies have to take into consideration specific determinants that hinder evaluation of post-mortem changes and indicates a possibility that current opinionating competence in this field may soon be exhausted.