Autopsy, Histology and Toxicology
Why Seek an Autopsy?
Losing a loved one is a profound and deeply personal experience. When questions arise surrounding their passing, seeking answers can be an essential step toward closure and understanding. Whether it’s to clarify the events leading to the death, confirm medical diagnoses, or gain insight for legal or familial reasons, a private autopsy provides definitive answers when uncertainty lingers.
At Jennifer Hammers Pathology, we understand that requesting an autopsy can be a difficult decision. Our compassionate, highly trained team is here to provide expert analysis with the utmost care and respect. With over 15,000 autopsies collectively performed, we bring an unparalleled depth of experience and knowledge to each case, ensuring families receive the most thorough and accurate findings possible. We will coordinate with your funeral director to ensure the autopsy performed is not disruptive to the services that you have planned for your cherished loved one.
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.
Autopsy findings may also assist surviving family members with their future 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. Identification of this disease or condition may guide further conversations with your medical provider.
Reasons for a private autopsy may vary, but some of the most common include:
Sudden or unexplained death
Death where there is a need to document inherited diseases such as colon cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, etc.
There are questions surrounding surgical and medical treatments, medications, and illicit substances
Suspected or known exposure to carcinogens, toxic chemicals or materials
Cases of possible nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, misdiagnosis, or wrongful death
The local Coroner or Medical Examiner’s office decides not to perform an autopsy or chooses to perform a limited autopsy, leaving the family with unresolved questions about the passing of their loved one. Families may seek a private autopsy even after a complete autopsy has been previously performed. Every Coroner and Medical Examiner have their own practices for cases that qualify for an investigation and autopsy.
Private autopsies can be performed following a range of timeframes proceeding death. While a timely autopsy may offer the most thorough conclusions, most aspects of the examination are not adversely affected if some time has passed. Though an extended postmortem interval may limit the extent of the findings, useful information can still be gathered from most examinations. Second autopsies can be performed for confirmation of findings or to answer unresolved questions. Our knowledgeable team will provide individualized information to the family to assist with their decision making process. Based on their questions, postmortem interval, and conditions such as embalming or exhumation, we will assist by establishing what procedures can be performed and what conclusions can reasonably be drawn.
What Does an Autopsy Entail?
An autopsy is a complete forensic examination that may include:
A comprehensive external and internal evaluation
Microscopic analysis (histology) to assess tissue at a cellular level
A detailed, comprehensive report provided directly to the family and/or attorney
Our process goes beyond the standard. Every private autopsy includes histological analysis, and case specific specialized examinations, such as immunohistochemical stains. We also conduct extensive toxicology testing through NMS Labs, utilizing their expanded postmortem panel and additional testing when necessary. Through a partnership with NCGM, Inc, we are able to offer genetic testing to assist with determination of cause of death or to identify genetically predisposed risks for surviving family members and offspring.
For cases involving neurological concerns, such as pediatric conditions or neurodegenerative diseases, we collaborate with the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Neuropathology, under the lead of Dr. Julia Kofler, and Allegheny General Hospital’s neuropathology departments. With the family’s permission, these institutions may also conduct vital research to advance medical knowledge.
What Makes Jennifer Hammers Pathology Different?
Dr. Jennifer Hammers is a board-certified forensic pathologist with years of experience in some of the nation’s most rigorous medical environments, including New York City, Boston, and Pittsburgh. As the Division Chief and Professor of Pathology at Duquesne University, she is a recognized leader in forensic medicine and pathology. Dr. John Delmastro, a Pittsburgh native, both in origin and training, has spent his career dedicated to forensic pathology and education, teaching at institutions such as St. Vincent, Seton Hill, and Westmoreland County Community College.
Beyond credentials, what truly sets us apart is our commitment to quality, accuracy, transparency, and compassion. Our dedicated family liaison allows families to have a direct line of communication to the JHP team. We approach every interaction with respect and sensitivity, ensuring families receive clear, thorough, and scientifically backed findings. Whether seeking a private autopsy or a second examination to offer independent conclusions, we provide the highest level of expertise to bring clarity and peace of mind during a difficult time.
If you have questions about the process or are considering an autopsy for a loved one, please reach out. We are here to support you with the knowledge, experience, and empathy you deserve.
Here, you can read a wonderful testimonial written by the highly distinguished pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu.
Please review our Frequently Asked Questions page prior to sending us an Inquiry for Services.
