Pre-testing Screening for HIV before Conducting Post-mortem Examinations.

ABSTRACT

The concern about contracting an infectious disease during the course of an autopsy is great, a concern heightened when the devastating infections that could be transmitted are considered. The fear and concern, however, appear out of proportion to the actual incidence of such disease transmission. In our autopsy study, out of the total 328 blood samples tested, only 2 (0.6%) samples were found to be HIV seroreactive, over a period of three years. A comparison with similar studies abroad, reveals varied results, which do not represent the population data. However more such studies will be needed in different regions of countries to find any significant pattern or correlation. Although this is a burning issue but the forensic medicine departments in India seem to be taking it lightly. The association of the department with a microbiologist is essential in saving its staff.