A forensic pathologist is a doctor who investigates the cause of death of someone who died suddenly, suspiciously, unnaturally, or unexpectedly. Forensic pathology is a subset of pathology, which is the study of body tissue and fluids to diagnose disease. A forensic pathologist examines the tissue and fluids of the deceased, while a general pathologist examines the tissue and fluids of the living.
A forensic pathologist can be compared to a death investigator or detective. He or she could be a medical examiner or coroner in a jurisdiction, or he or she could work with one. Some forensic pathologists prefer to work in a solo or private practice.
Natural, homicide, suicide, accident, and undetermined are the five main legally recognized causes of death in most jurisdictions. As a result, forensic pathologists must determine which of these legal causes applies to the deceased person. An autopsy is performed on the deceased to determine the cause of death.
A forensic pathologist examines the interior and exterior of the deceased’s body during an autopsy. Small samples of tissue, such as organs, skin, hair, and fingernails, may be taken for examination in addition to a visual examination of the body to check for signs of disease, drugs, or any substances present in the body. The forensic pathologist completes a written report with the conclusion of the legal cause of death after receiving the results of any applicable tests.
In some cases, forensic pathologists may be called to testify in court about their findings on the cause and manner of death. As a result, they are frequently crucial witnesses in death penalty cases, as their testimony and credibility can help determine a defendant’s guilt or innocence.
Forensic pathologists must complete a post-secondary education and training program that lasts between thirteen and fifteen years. After earning a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college, a prospective forensic pathologist must complete four years of medical school, followed by four to five years of residency. Finally, the prospective forensic pathologist must complete an additional one to two years of specialized training in forensic pathology before taking the necessary examinations to become certified as a forensic pathologist.