Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 8, 2026
09:41
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
12.1K
Diagnostic accuracy of postmortem imaging vs autopsy-A systematic review
Anders Eriksson1, Torfinn Gustafsson1, Malin Höistad2
1Section of Forensic Medicine, Dept of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, PO Box 7016, SE-907 12 Umeå, Sweden.
European Journal of Radiology
|January 17, 2017
Summary
Postmortem imaging shows potential for determining organ weights and detecting gas, but current studies lack the quality to confirm its diagnostic accuracy as an autopsy alternative.
Area of Science:
- Forensic pathology
- Radiology
- Medical imaging
Background:
- Postmortem imaging has a long history complementing medico-legal autopsies.
- It is increasingly considered as an alternative to declining clinical autopsy rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of postmortem imaging techniques.
- To assess the utility of postmortem imaging as a complement or alternative to traditional autopsy.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to January 7, 2015.
- Included studies were assessed for risk of bias using the QUADAS tool.
- Autopsy and/or histopathology served as the reference standard.
Main Results:
- 71 studies were included, with 49 assessed as high risk of bias and 22 as moderate risk.
- Heterogeneity in study populations, techniques, and reporting prevented data pooling for a summary accuracy estimate.
- Individual studies suggested utility in organ weight determination and superiority over autopsy in gas detection.
Conclusions:
- The current scientific literature is insufficient to determine the diagnostic accuracy and usefulness of postmortem imaging.
- Future research requires improved study design, higher methodological quality, and larger, multi-center cohorts to establish the role of postmortem imaging.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
1.1K
Introduction: MRI and CT scans are crucial advancements in medical imaging techniques, playing a vital role in diagnosing conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Each scan serves distinct purposes, targets specific areas, and requires unique nursing duties.
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
1.1K
01:28Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
465
Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scanning is an advanced cardiac imaging technique that utilizes CT technology, with or without intravenous (IV) contrast, to produce accurate cross-sectional virtual slices of specific areas of the heart, coronary circulation, and major blood vessels such as the aorta, pulmonary veins, and arteries. The computer processes these slices to generate three-dimensional images. Multidetector CT (MDCT) is a rapid form of CT scanning that captures multiple slices...
465