What is the primary purpose of an autopsy?

The primary purpose of an autopsy is to determine the cause of death. An autopsy, also known as a post-mortem examination, is a thorough investigation performed by a pathologist that examines the body and its organs. This process often uncovers not only the immediate cause of death, such as diseases, injuries, or other medical conditions, but also any underlying issues that may have contributed to the death.

While collecting data for health statistics is an important aspect of autopsy findings, it serves a secondary role compared to the primary objective of understanding the cause of death. Similarly, studying the effects of medications or performing evaluations for organ transplants may occur in specific contexts but are not the main focus of an autopsy. This emphasis on determining the cause of death has significant implications for public health, legal matters, and familial closure.