Goldman et al classified diagnoses made at autopsy based on their clinical significance. The presence of a major undiagnosed condition should prompt a case review to identify possible causes that can be corrected.
Major = condition that can be fatal if undiagnosed and untreated. Diagnosis and treatment could prolong life or cure the condition.
Minor = a condition that is not major.
Diagnosis at Autopsy
Diagnosed Antemortem?
Association with Cause of Death
Class
major
yes
V
major
no
directly causal
I
major
no
not causal
II
minor
yes
V
minor
no
related to
III
minor
no
unrelated to
IV
NOTE: Looking at this table, I would think there is also need for a category of diagnoses made antemortem not substantiated at autopsy.
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