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Clinical autopsy: methodological applications and scientific perspectives in post-mortem diagnostics
Martina Padovano1, Matteo Scopetti2, Federico Manetti1
1Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
Pathologica
|November 17, 2025
Summary
Clinical autopsy is vital for determining causes of death, especially for cardiac pathologies. Rigorous methods, including genetics, improve diagnostic accuracy and public health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Medical Autopsy
- Public Health
Background:
- Mortality analysis is crucial for public health.
- Clinical autopsy provides definitive cause of death information.
- Standardized autopsy protocols enhance data reliability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze mortality from natural causes using clinical autopsy.
- To emphasize methodological rigor and scientific contributions of autopsy.
- To evaluate the role of ancillary investigations in determining cause of death.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 1,340 autopsies (2017-2023).
- Application of standardized protocols for complete autopsies.
- Inclusion of ancillary investigations: histopathology, imaging, microbiology, genetics.
Main Results:
- Cardiac pathologies were the leading cause of natural death (70.3%).
- Ancillary methods were essential for diagnosing cause of death in younger individuals.
- Genetic studies identified hereditary conditions, facilitating family screening.
Conclusions:
- Clinical autopsy is indispensable for accurate cause of death determination.
- Standardized autopsy with ancillary methods improves scientific understanding and public health.
- Expanding post-mortem diagnostics and centralizing facilities are vital for quality mortality assessment.
