Infectious risks in autopsy practice

S. Hostiuc, G. C. Curca, M. Ceausu, M. C. Rusu, E. Niculescu, D. Dermengiu

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to analyze whether after proper decontamination using standardized methods there are still infectious markers in the autopsy room, suggestive for the possibility of contacting infectious diseases from previous autopsies. In order to analyze the presence and severity of residual risk we performed the following procedures: air sampling for bacterial agents, microbiological identification on surfaces and immunoassays for viruses/agents with slow growth/ no growth on culture mediums. After autopsy room disinfection we found an increased number of Gram positive cocci (especially enteric), a decreased number of Gram negative bacteria and two positive immune reactions – one for HVB and one for HIV. As a conclusion, standard prophylactic procedures must always be used, as autopsy-related infectious risk is significantly increased compared to other specialties. Also, standard disinfection has a limited value in removing viral traces, leading to a residual infectious risk.
Keywords: infectious risks, autopsy infection, HIV, hepatitis