Reviving the Autopsy for Modern Cancer Evolution Research

摘要

Medical autopsies have a long history, but are currently experiencing a revival in order to progress modern cancer evolution research. Research autopsies represent an unparalleled opportunity to collect large volumes of cancer tissue accessible from multiple sites in a metastatic cancer patient’s body—not usually feasible during the standard clinical course. These collections enable researchers to unravel tumour evolution and heterogeneity questions. Many institutions around the world have recognised the value of these tissues, and have established rapid cancer autopsy programmes. Our article discusses a comprehensive collection of 24 rapid cancer autopsy programmes from across the globe.