How are SIDS deaths identified?
Detailed investigations have indicated several possible causes of death when a baby dies suddenly and unexpectedly. Sudden deaths in infants, therefore, are temporarily assigned to the broad category of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI, or a similar term) until the results of the investigation are available. Often, parents receive a temporary diagnosis of SIDS and are referred to associations and support groups for help during the difficult months ahead. Investigations into the cause of death take time, and all participants have an important role to play. Usually, the final autopsy report is the last piece of information to be obtained. The pathologist performing the autopsy carefully examines all organs and regions of the body, searching for abnormalities that can explain the tragedy of an infant’s death. If after receiving the reports of all investigation parties the coroner or medical examiner still cannot determine the cause of death, a diagnosis of SIDS is likely to be ret
