Glossary

Alzheimer’s Disease:  medical disorder causing dementia

Analysis:  to examine in detail in order to understand it or to draw conclusions from it

Anatomic:  relating to physical structure

Aneurysm:  a blood-filled artery resulting causing a weakening vessel wall

Asbestosis:  lung disease from inflammation and prolonged inhalation of toxic fibers

Authorization Form:  a required form that must be signed by the next of kin consenting that an autopsy may be performed.

Autopsy:  a medical examination performed after death to determine the cause and circumstances of death.

Cardio:  referring to the heart

Cardiovascular Disease:  abnormality of the heart or blood vessels

Deposition:  testimony that is given under oath

DNA:  substance carrying genetic information

Drug Overdose/Interaction:  a dangerously large dose of a drug, especially a narcotic, causing hospitalization or death.

Exhumation:  to dig up a corpse from a grave

Forensic Autopsy:  a criminal investigation through an autopsy

Mesothelioma:  see asbestosis

Microscope:  magnifying instrument that uses a system of lenses to greatly enlarge and object

MRSA:  resistant bacteria (staphylococcus infection)

Neurological Disease:  the branch of medicine that deals with the structure and function of the nervous system

Next of Kin:  nearest relative under local jurisdictions authorized to sign any legal disposition on behalf of the decedent

Pathologist:  a physician trained in the scientific study of the nature, origin, progress, and cause of disease

Post Examination:  see autopsy

Preliminary Examination:  initial findings and reportings after the autopsy

Pulmonary:  relating to the lungs

Pulmonary Embolism:  a sudden blockage in a lung artery