Proposal for a harmonized protocol for COVID-19 screening and necropsy in forensic sciences facilities

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to a global health crisis with significant mortality.
• Detailed pathological findings and standardized autopsy protocols for COVID-19 are lacking.
• Existing histopathological studies often use limited samples or minimally invasive methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a comprehensive autopsy protocol for forensic medicine institutes during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
• To balance the need for detailed tissue collection with essential worker safety measures.
• To facilitate standardized histopathological examination of COVID-19 fatalities.

Main Methods:

• Development of a detailed necropsy protocol specifically for COVID-19 cases.
• Integration of stringent safety measures for personnel involved in autopsies.
• Emphasis on optimal tissue sampling for subsequent histopathological analysis.

Main Results:

• The proposed protocol provides a structured approach to conducting autopsies on COVID-19 victims.
• It addresses the critical need for detailed pathological data in the absence of comprehensive studies.
• The protocol aims to enhance the quality and consistency of tissue samples for research.

Conclusions:

• A standardized and safe autopsy protocol is crucial for understanding the pathology of COVID-19.
• Implementing this protocol can improve the quality of forensic and scientific investigations into SARS-CoV-2 deaths.
• This approach supports both worker protection and the advancement of scientific knowledge regarding COVID-19.