Autopsy Pathology

Providing Private Autopsy Services In VA, MD, PA, DC, & CT with Care and Compassion

ABOUT US

 EPIARX Diagnostics is a full-service pathology practice serving Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, and beyond. We provide private autopsy services (also known as “medical autopsy” or “independent autopsy”) which gives families answers about the cause of death, manner of death and pathological diagnoses.

OUR APPROACH

We recognize that the death of a loved one is a very difficult time and in seeking an private autopsy (or independent autopsy) individuals and families are seeking answers about the cause of death that may bring closure. We provide:    

  • Autopsy consultation with a board certified pathologist for families and individuals considering an autopsy for their loved one.

    • Schedule a same-day autopsy consult with a board pathologist to discuss what makes sense by way of next steps in view of your loved ones’ medical history and circumstances of death.

  • Preliminary report (within 2 business days)

  • Personalized service

  • We work with your funeral director to ensure any autopsy performed is not disruptive to funeral or cremation arrangements.   

To schedule an autopsy go to www.epiarx.com/schedule to get the process started.  

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS ABOUT A PRIVATE AUTOPSY

What is an autopsy?

 An autopsy is a medical examination of a body after death to provide answers about the the immediate and underlying causes of death.   The autopsy procedure includes examination of the deceased person’s internal organs as well as laboratory testing of body fluids and tissues.    

Why would I need a private autopsy?

A family may choose to have a private autopsy completed if they have unresolved questions surrounding the death of their loved one. A diagnosis of the cause of death of their loved one by a board certified pathologist help family members to find a degree of closure.

Autopsy findings may also assist surviving family members with their health care. In some instances, evidence of a hereditary disease or chronic degenerative condition, that surviving family members may be unaware of, is found during the autopsy process. This disease or condition may require medical intervention.

Reasons for a private autopsy may vary, but some of the most common include:

  • Sudden or unexplained death (such as unexplained or unexpected death, occurring or following any medical, surgical or dental diagnostic procedure or therapy);

  • Suspected COVID-19 death;

  • The local Medical Examiner’s office decides not to perform an autopsy following a loved one’s death, leaving the family with unanswered questions about the passing of their loved one;

  • Cases of possible nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, misdiagnosis, or wrongful death;

  • Suspected or known exposure to carcinogens, toxic chemicals or material (e.g., inquiry regarding mesothelioma; and

  • Death where there is a need to document inherited diseases such as colon cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, etc.

Private autopsies can be done soon after a person has passed away (even if an autopsy has already been performed by a hospital or some other entity).

Check out our FAQs page for answers to other questions about the private autopsy process.