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Updated: Nov 2, 2025
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Differences in Postmortem Investigation following Perinatal Death
Matthew A Nestander1, Kathryn Berryman2, Robert Brady3
1Division of Neonatal, Department of Pediatrics, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Hood, Texas.
Objective:
The study aimed to describe the postmortem investigation patterns for perinatal deaths and compare the degree of investigation between stillbirths and early neonatal deaths.
Study Design:
We conducted a single-center retrospective review of all perinatal deaths from 2011 to 2017. Perinatal death was defined as intrauterine fetal death at ≥20 weeks' gestation, plus neonatal deaths within the first 7 days of life. Rates of postmortem investigation were compared.
Results:
There were 97 perinatal deaths, with 54 stillbirths (56%) and 43 neonatal deaths (44%). Stillbirths were significantly more likely to receive autopsy (p = 0.013) and postmortem genetic testing (p = 0.0004) when compared with neonatal deaths. Maternal testing was also more likely in stillbirths than neonatal deaths. A total of 32 deaths (33%) had no postmortem evaluation beyond placental pathology.
Conclusion:
Investigation following perinatal death is more likely in stillbirths than neonatal deaths. Methods to improve postmortem investigation following perinatal death are needed, particularly for neonatal deaths.
Key Points:
· Investigation into perinatal death is recommended.. · Rates of investigation remain low.. · Neonatal deaths with less investigation than stillbirths..
