In this issue

Excerpt

The papers in this issue eloquently illustrate the scope of our journal. It reaches from classical descriptive pathology, using state of the art histological methods, through exploration of impact of use of new technology on pathology practice, to quality control which is essential for new technology but also for conventional anatomical pathology. To start with the latter, Basso et al. (https://​doi.​org/​10.​1007/​s00428-017-2221-0) address guidelines for autopsy in sudden death cases. Among causes of death in affluent countries, sudden death is prominent and pathologists are well positioned to contribute important information regarding causes and mechanisms. However, in spite of guidelines developed by the Association for European Cardiovascular Pathology for adequate autopsy practice in cases of sudden cardiac death, the quality of the post mortem examinations remains an issue of concern. The Association now presents an update, clarifying issues based upon the experience gained using previous guidelines, but in addition emphasizing the importance of molecular testing in view of the increased understanding of the genetics of cardiovascular diseases. In addition to instructions regarding macroscopic and histological examination of the heart, recommendations for toxicological, microbiological, biochemical and molecular investigations are elaborated. These are relevant for all (forensic) pathologists practicing autopsies. …