The high risk autopsy. Recognition and protection.
The high-risk autopsy is defined as postmortem examination of a deceased person who has had, or is likely to have had, a serious infectious disease that can be transmitted to those present at the autopsy, thereby causing them serious illness and/or premature death. In this article, particular attention is paid to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B infections, as these are diseases that are currently of concern among mortuary workers. Recognition of risk factors and incidence of cross-infection in the mortuary as well as various recommendations for preventive measures are discussed. The need for high-risk autopsies, both to further research into these infections and to assist the police in cases of suspicious death, is stressed.
Claydon
S M
SM
Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff.
D001344:Autopsy / Q000379:methods*; D003140:Communicable Disease Control / Q000379:methods*; D003141:Communicable Diseases / Q000635:transmission*; D003334:Coroners and Medical Examiners; D005554:Forensic Medicine; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011481:Protective Clothing; D012307:Risk Factors