[header] How to obtain autopsy reports & results [title] Understand the purpose of an autopsy. [step] An autopsy is an examination of the body of a deceased person, carried out by a qualified pathologist. The pathologist creates a written record of the autopsy findings, including the microscopic and laboratory tests. 
Next of kin or other authorized individuals can then request copies of these reports. There are two types of autopsies : [substeps] The hospital autopsy: this type is often referred to as a post-mortem exam or necropsy.