title: [Significance of functional conclusions for "determination" of the cause of death].
abstract: On account of the usual expectation it is often assumed, that an autopsy allows the definitive determination of the manner and cause of death. This paper discusses in a critical way the problems associated with this endeavour. It is often the case, that extensive investigations, associated with structural-functional conclusions and consideration of all available evidence are necessary to permit a retrospective interpretation of the course of death. This assumes a scientifically orientated approach to dynamic pathophysiological mechanism.
authors.affiliation: Institut für Rechtsmedizin, Rheinisch-Westfälischen Technischen Hochschule Aachen.
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Althoff
mesh_terms: D001344:Autopsy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000379:methods; D002423:Cause of Death; D003334:Coroners and Medical Examiners / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005858:Germany; D006801:Humans
vernacular_title: Die Bedeutung funktioneller Rückschlüsse für die "Feststellung" der Todesursache.