[Sudden death in the young: the importance of autopsy and DNA testing]

When a young person suddenly dies, there is a real chance that this was caused by genetic heart disease. Autopsy plays an important role in determining the cause of death, but the autopsy rate in the Netherlands is relatively low. Practical problems and a lack of information on autopsy play a role. It is important to inform the family on the importance of autopsy and DNA testing. If the family refuses autopsy, consent can be given for removal of material for DNA testing. If no autopsy and no DNA test were done, cardiological screening of family members remains highly recommended. New guidelines and procedures for diagnostics after sudden death are very important. For that reason, we developed a step-by-step plan to support healthcare providers. Early detection of genetic heart disease may prevent sudden death of family members, for example, by using preventive medication or internal defibrillators (ICD).