General Question

Inara27's avatar

Is there a difference between an autopsy and a necropsy?

Asked by Inara27 (1877points) September 4th, 2015

I have heard both used, but usually “autopsy” refers to humans and necropsy is used with animals. Is there really a difference or is this only convention? The usual web pages via Google don’t seem to be of any help.

Observing members: 0 Composing members: 0

7 Answers

Inara27's avatar

Thanks @josie! Although I agree with the replies in that thread, the word “autopsy” means “self-seeing” so it seems like it could refer to either human or animal. To see for one’s self the cause of death.

Inara27 (1877points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…
Adirondackwannabe's avatar

@josie So necropsy is just on animals, it’s like an autopsy. Why distinguish between the two?

Adirondackwannabe (36713points)“Great Answer” (2points) Flag as…
Coloma's avatar

Yep, necropsy is the term for animal autopsy.

Coloma (47193points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
kritiper's avatar

Necropsy is just the examination, a study of the body, no more. Autopsy is to examine to find cause of death, extent of disease or sickness that caused the death.

kritiper (25757points)“Great Answer” (4points) Flag as…
Response moderated (Spam)
Response moderated (Spam)

Answer this question

Login

or

Join

to answer.

This question is in the General Section. Responses must be helpful and on-topic.

Your answer will be saved while you login or join.

Have a question? Ask Fluther!

What do you know more about?
or
Knowledge Networking @ Fluther