Who are Forensic Pathologist?

By:Maimoonah Naveed

Introduction to Forensic Pathology:

Forensic pathology is a branch of pathology dedicated to determining the cause and manner of death by inspecting bodies, especially in cases where the death is suspicious, sudden and unexpected. Forensic pathologists work on determining the causes of death via autopsies or postmortem examinations, which are examinations of the deceased body.

 What they do:

Forensic pathologists look at a person's medical history to figure out their cause of death.They check medical records for past health conditions, treatments, or surgeries. They can talk to doctors who treated the person to understand the deceased person's conditions and medication. They also look for drug use or past injuries that could have caused the death. Essentially, their main role is determining causes of death and testifying in court. 

Forensic pathologist collect and analyze evidence:

With the information they obtained from the crime scene, autopsy, and medical records, forensic pathologists conclude the cause of death. They review the medical history of the deceased, bodily injuries or signs of disease, and trace samples along with samples of evidence from the crime scene. After analyzing the history, body examination, and lab results, they combine everything to determine the cause and manner of death, such as injury, disease, or poisoning, and write a report to summarize their findings. Performing Autopsies To conduct the autopsy, Forensic pathologists begin by identifying the body, then perform an external analysis to check for signs of injury or abnormalities. Then, they perform an internal examination of the organs, collecting samples like blood and tissue for lab testing. Using this information, they determine the cause of death, whether from toxins, disease or other causes. The findings are then documented in a report, which may be used in legal cases or investigations.

Testifying in court

 Forensic pathologists can testify in court as expert witnesses, based on their knowledge about the cause and the manner of death. They must ensure that their testimony is well founded and that the methods and conclusions they have come to are reliable, as it will be presented in court and used as evidence.

Educational Requirements:

The first step in becoming a forensic pathologist to complete 4 years of high school or obtain a GED. High school students interested in forensic pathology should take classes related to science and mathematics and maintain good grades. The second step in becoming a forensic pathologist is obtaining a bachelor's degree in pre-medicine, biology or chemistry is an essential step as it provides the framework for success in medical school. The third step in becoming a forensic pathologist is to go to medical school. Medical students should expect to spend all of their time in classrooms, on clinical rotations, or studying for exams. The medical school consists of 4 years, with the first 2 years in the classroom and the last 2 years in clinical rotations .

A forensic pathologist ex

A forensic pathologist examining a skeleton.

Sources:

 Torres, Callie. “How to Become a Forensic Pathologist?  – The Education, Career, and Job Duties.” UMHS, www.umhs-sk.org/blog/how-to-become-a-forensic-pathologist. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025. 

Wescott, Alberto. “London Publishing SL: Open Access Journals.” Longdom, Longdom Publishing S.L, 27 June 2023, www.longdom.org/open-access/forensic-pathology-its-role-in-legal-systems-and-death-investigations-102148.html. 

professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “What Is a Forensic Pathologist? What They Do & Training.” Cleveland Clinic, 1 May 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24614-forensic-pathologist. 

“What You Need to Know about Forensic Pathology .” College of American Pathologists, www.cap.org/member-resources/articles/what-you-need-to-know-about-forensic-pathology. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.