The High Risk Autopsy

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.