What is an autopsy and is it always required?
An autopsy (or post mortem examination) is the medical examination of the body after death has occurred. The autopsy can be ordered by the Coroner if required to investigate the death to determine: the cause of death; the manner of death; to continue the clinical study of the case; investigate problems of physical, chemical, bacteriological, pathological and anatomical conditions. The Coroner has the authority to order an autopsy without the consent of the next of kin. There are times when the attending physician or the family members themselves may request an autopsy, however, an autopsy is not necessarily required.
