The role of limited, symptom-directed autopsies in terminal malignant disease

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Results are presented from a series of 63 limited, symptom-directed autopsies carried out on patients dying with advanced malignant disease. Three main clinical features were studied: pain in the head and neck, dysphagia and intestinal obstruction. The applications and limitations of this procedure are critically discussed. It is concluded that the limited, symptom-directed autopsy can clarify selected clinical features with a local, structural basis. The information gained can be exploited in subsequent clinical practice.