Question
During an autopsy of a fetal death case, what is the correct order of examination to differentiate between live birth and stillbirth?
| A. |
Abdomen > Head > Thorax |
| B. |
Thorax > Head > Abdomen |
| C. |
Head > Abdomen > Thorax |
| D. |
Head > Thorax > Abdomen |
Show Answer
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Correct Answer » A Explanation |
 |
- In fetal autopsy for differentiation of live birth and stillbirth, the abdomen is opened first.
- This is done to examine the level of the diaphragm before the thoracic cavity is disturbed.
- If the infant has breathed:
- Lungs expand
- Diaphragm descends
- If stillborn:
- Lungs remain collapsed
- Diaphragm remains high
- After abdomen, the head and then thorax are examined.
Differentiation of Live Birth vs Stillbirth
Important findings:
- Hydrostatic lung test
- Position of diaphragm
- Presence of air in stomach/intestine
- Middle ear aeration
Diaphragm Position
- Live birth:
- Diaphragm lower due to expanded lungs
- Stillbirth:
- Diaphragm higher because lungs are unexpanded
Hydrostatic Test
- Lungs float → child breathed
- Lungs sink → no respiration