Ethical and legal aspects of clinical and forensic autopsy

Authors

Abstract

This narrative review analyzed ethical and legal aspects of clinical and forensic autopsy, compiling
studies from various methodologies published between 2000 and 2023 in the LILACS, PubMed, Scopus,
Web of Science, and SciELO databases, providing a comprehensive view of the topic. The findings were
categorized into clinical autopsy, forensic autopsy, and autopsy during the pandemic, highlighting the
effects of COVID-19. Both types are essential for improving medical care, clarifying causes of death,
and providing legal evidence, yet they face challenges such as a decline in cases due to technological
advancements and cultural and religious barriers. The pandemic intensified these challenges, leading
to procedural adaptations and increased recognition of alternative methods. Balancing the need for
reliable information while respecting cultural beliefs remains an ongoing challenge, emphasizing the
importance of ethical approaches. The evolution of autopsy reflects medical advancements and the
complex interplay between science, ethics, culture, and legality.

Keywords:

Autopsy. Legislation. Ethics. Covid-19.

Author Biographies

Horácio Mário Fittipaldi Júnior, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife/PE, Brasil.

Horácio Mário Fittipaldi Júnior – Mestre – horacio.fittipaldijr@ufpe.br
0000-0003-1443-8639

Betuel Gomes da Silva, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife/PE, Brasil.

Betuel Gomes da Silva – Mestrando – betuel.gomes@ufpe.br
0009-0002-4834-0859

Etiene Oliveira da Silva Fittipaldi, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife/PE, Brasil.

Etiene Oliveira da Silva Fittipaldi – Doutora – etiene.silva@ufpe.br
0000-0002-1524-6930

Vol. 33 (2025): Continued publication

Published:

2025-06-24

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/1983-803420253829PT

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How to Cite

1.
Fittipaldi Júnior HM, Gomes da Silva B, Oliveira da Silva Fittipaldi E. Ethical and legal aspects of clinical and forensic autopsy. Rev. Bioét. [Internet]. 2025 Jun. 24 [cited 2025 Oct. 9];33. Available from: https://www.revistabioetica.cfm.org.br/revista_bioetica/article/view/3829

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