It is still the only way to prove a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. While most diagnoses of Alzheimer’s disease are confirmed with autopsy, a small percentage are found to have been misdiagnosed. Additionally, some individuals have several disorders and autopsy provides the family with information they would not otherwise know. This informs future generations of valuable medical history, particularly as research is searching for genetic links to this disease.
To confirm a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia only a brain autopsy is needed.
Ideally the diagnosed person will have made their autopsy wishes known when they were able. Otherwise the next-of-kin or the guardian can legally make this decision.
Plans should be made well ahead of the individual’s death. Arranging for autopsy requires coordination between the family, the physician, the institution performing the autopsy and the funeral home. There may not be adequate time or energy at the time of death if plans are not made ahead of time.
Yes, the removal of brain tissue does not leave any disfigurement.
The Alzheimer’s Association recommends against organ donation because the causes of this disease are still not known.
At a hospital where the pathologist is knowledgeable about making this diagnosis, has the necessary equipment and is willing to perform the autopsy. The National Capital Area has detailed information about restrictions, costs, and availabilty of autopsy in the chapter territory. Call the Helpline: 703-359-4440 or toll-free 1-800-272-3900.
This varies with each hospital. If the diagnosed person dies in the hospital, many hospitals will perform an autopsy at no charge.
A autopsy at a local hospital will provide a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease as an underlying cause of death (it is still not recognized as a primary cause of death). This does assist in adding to accurate documentation as to the prevalence of this disease. Autopsy