Introduction

Genetic testing has become widely implemented in clinical settings, and several forensic institutes overseas have established systems related to genetic testing. However, such frameworks are still lacking in forensic institutions in Japan. The first author established a new Department of Forensic Pathology in 2023 and, starting from scratch, conducted genetic testing and developed the foundation for a future system. This report describes those efforts.

Case Reports

In one case, the need for genetic testing arose during routine practice. Since there was no existing framework for funding, genetic testing procedures, or family support, we first consulted the Department of Clinical Genetics and Medicine. We jointly explained the situation to the bereaved family, requested their follow-up support, and conducted genetic testing using research funds from the Department of Clinical Genetics and Medicine.

In another case, a close relative of the deceased requested genetic testing for themselves. We provided a biological sample obtained during the autopsy, and the requested genetic testing was carried out.

Results and Discussion

In Japan, there is currently no standardized system specifying under what circumstances genetic testing should be conducted in forensic autopsy cases, who should bear the costs, or who should provide family support. Each institution must address these issues independently.

At our department, we have experienced two such cases and, anticipating more in the future, established a system allowing genetic testing through participation in clinical research conducted by other universities. We plan to continue examining the appropriate role and framework for genetic testing in forensic medicine, with reference to systems implemented in other countries.

Authors

• Yosuke Usumoto (Department of Forensic Pathology and Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan)
• Yumiko Taura (Department of Clinical Genetics and Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, Japan)
• Yukiko Sadamatsu (Department of Forensic Pathology and Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan)
• Nozomi Eto (Department of Forensic Pathology and Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Japan)
• Sawako Matsuzaki (Department of Clinical Genetics and Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, Japan)
• Akiko Ishikawa (Department of Clinical Genetics and Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, Japan)
• Kiyoko Kato (Department of Clinical Genetics and Medicine, Kyushu University Hospital, Japan)
• Taka-aki Matsuyama (Department of Legal Medicine, Showa Medical University, School of Medicine, Japan)
• Eiko Terashi (Department of Paediatrics, Kyushu University Hospital, Japan)
• Aya Miura (Department of Legal Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, Japan)
• Takuma Yamamoto (Department of Legal Medicine, Hyogo Medical University, Japan)