[Development of a findings and results data system for forensic medicine autopsy cases]

Based on the personal computer software "dBase III plus", we have developed a database program for storage and analysis of data obtained from forensic autopsies. It has been designed to handle administrative data as well as aspects of pathological and forensic findings. To assure the comparability of data with those of other institutes, the data were encoded using the SNOMED nomenclature. This system is characterized by a well differentiated, hierarchical structure, and is commonly used internationally. The entry of data is done by choosing among more than 3,000 terms, which are displayed in a system of selective menus. There terms can be supplemented at any time for specific purposes. Thus it is necessary to record the results of an autopsy in a standardized and well-defined way. The data-base can be used for statistical evaluation of autopsy results, but is also intended as a basis for the development of an expert system to help to determine the cause of death.