[Applications of morphometry in forensic medicine]

Various histomorphometric methods and their use in clinical-pathological and forensic investigations are described. The methods are 1. manual point counting using an integrating eyepiece, 2. semi-automated histomorphometry using a manual digitizer and 3. automated image-analysing. Although the semi-automated and automated techniques are less time consuming and provide more information about the specimen, every method is regarded as having its specific range of application. It is pointed out that there is often a need for quantitation of histological findings especially in forensic medicine.