Autopsy Pathology

The Autopsy Pathology elective rotation is designed for the student, under supervision, to participate in all autopsies that are done during the month on service at The George Washington University Hospital (GWUH). The student will prepare a relevant summary of the clinical history and pertinent laboratory tests, and will participate in the autopsy procedure and preparation of a written preliminary and final written report of gross and microscopic pathology findings and their interpretations, including cause of death statement. The student will make a formal presentation of a case with a brief review of literature pertinent to the case at a departmental conference. The student will also prepare a brief written report/update on an issue of practical concern for autopsy practice (for example, management of TB cases at autopsy). The student will also have the opportunity to spend 1-2 days at the Medical Examiner’s office for an exposure to the forensic autopsy.

Course Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Describe the procedure and technique of performing an autopsy, including methods of dissection, documentation of findings, clinical-pathological correlation, and preparation of a report with the cause of death statement.
2. Use the autopsy as a means of increasing overall knowledge of medicine and pathology.
3. Recognize the role of the autopsy in medical education and quality assurance.