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Role of forensic pathologists in mass disasters

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Abstract

The forensic pathologist has always had a central role in the identification of the dead in every day practice, in accidents, and in disasters involving hundreds or thousands of victims. This role has changed in recent years, as advances in forensic odontology, genetics and anthropology have improved the chances of identifying victims beyond recognition. According to the Interpol DVI Guide, fingerprints, dental examination and DNA are the primary identifiers, and this has given new emphasis to the role of the forensic pathologist as the leader of a multidisciplinary team of experts in a disaster situation, based on his or her qualifications and the experience gained from doing the same work in the everyday situation of an institute of forensic medicine.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Forensic Sciences Institute of National Gendarmerie, 1 blvd T. Sueur, 93110, Rosny-sous-Bois, France

    Yves Schuliar

  2. Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 17B, 5000, Odense C, Denmark

    Peter Juel Thiis Knudsen

Authors
  1. Yves Schuliar
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  2. Peter Juel Thiis Knudsen
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Correspondence to Yves Schuliar.

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Schuliar, Y., Knudsen, P.J.T. Role of forensic pathologists in mass disasters. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 8, 164–173 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12024-011-9300-3

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