Application of forensic post-mortem techniques in a rapid autopsy to facilitate cancer research - an illustrative case report

• Published in: Australian journal of forensic sciences Vol. 57; no. 2; pp. 213 - 219
• Main Authors: Tse, Rexson, Robb, Tamsin, Stables, Simon, Kramer, Nicole, Parker, Kate, Coats, Esther, Blenkiron, Cherie, Print, Cris, Lawrence, Ben
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Sydney Taylor & Francis 04.03.2025; Australian Academy of Forensic Sciences; Copyright Agency Limited (Distributor)
• Subjects: Autopsies; Autopsy; Cancer; cancer research; Computed tomography; Forensic science; Forensic sciences; genomics; Medical care; Metastases; Neuroendocrine tumors; Pathology; postmortem; Precision medicine; precision oncology; Rapid autopsy; Social aspects; Tissue analysis; Tumors; warm autopsy; AUSTRALIA
• ISSN: 0045-0618; 1834-562X
• DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2024.2309918

Rapid or 'warm' autopsy is an emerging technique in cancer genomic research. The expertise of forensic pathology can fulfil the research requirements for rapid autopsy to procure tumour lesions. This includes managing body transportation, interpretation of computed tomography scans, handling fresh (non-formalin fixed tissue), special dissection techniques, documentation, collection of samples, and subsequent reconstruction. This case report documents our experience in a single patient, with over 90 neuroendocrine tumour metastases, from pre-post-mortem planning, procurement, and subsequent tissue analysis. This case highlights the technical parallels between post-mortem examination and a rapid autopsy for cancer tissue collection. We challenge the forensic pathology community to utilize their expertise and expand their roles in rapid autopsy research, so that forensic pathologists can make a significant contribution to future precision medicine.