ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Obtaining post-mortem tissue from pediatric oncology patients is not only critical to research, but studies show that participating in the process can also help grieving families heal. Since 2019, the national Gift from a Child program a multi-institutional effort to increase the rate of rapid autopsies for pediatric CNS tumor patients has made significant progress. Collecting high-quality post-mortem tissue has advanced research through cell line generation and genomic analyses. Unfortunately, some autopsy programs temporarily shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed autopsies of four patients treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) who underwent limited brain post-mortem examination at Weill Cornell Medicine College (WCMC) from June 2020 to June 2021. We collected patient demographics;DNR status;time of death and procedure;restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic;and results of the tissue analysis. Each case presented unique challenges and the timing of securing parental consent varied. RESULTS: Three of four specimens were processed within 12 hours of the time of death. Two Spanish-speaking families required interpreters services to obtain consent. In all cases tumor aliquots were flash frozen for further study. All specimens contained viable tumor and cell line generation was successful in one case All families/caregivers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate and for the handling of the procedures. DISCUSSION: Despite the sensitive nature of these cases, clinicians should offer the option of a rapid autopsy to caregivers of pediatric patients based on the scientific need and the positive effect it has on grieving families. This paper outlines the logistical efforts required for these donations to take place and provides a framework for providers to offer rapid autopsy as an option for families through this program.