AIDS, Autopsies, and Abandonment

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Abstract
TO DATE, studies of physicians show only a minute occupational risk of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).1 Even after a needlestick-type injury, seroconversion is a varity.2 Nonetheless, an increasing number of physicians have publicly refused to give care to patients infected with HIV (New York Times, March 13, 1987, p A21; July 10, 1987, p D18),3 despite the American Medical Association declaration that physicians are ethically bound to care for people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) (New York Times, Nov 13, 1987, p A14). We have encountered several instances wherein pathologists refused to perform necropsies on AIDS patients for reasons that proved illogical, prejudicial, or arbitrary. Parallel instances have occurred elsewhere, including in a self-designated AIDS treatment center in New York City.4 There are appropriate and ethical reasons to refuse an autopsy, including its having an origin outside one's own institution and, thus, less

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