Sudden Unexpected Infant Death

How is SIDS identified or diagnosed as the cause of a baby’s death? (continued)

The Medical Examiner or Coroner will conduct a complete examination of the infant, preferably within 24 hours of death. A complete autopsy must be performed before SIDS can be used as the cause of death. Since a host of differential diagnoses have to be ruled out before SIDS can be considered, the M.E. will also:

1. Test for metabolic disorders, the presence of infection, exposure to drugs, alcohol, or other toxic substances, carbon monoxide poisoning, and trauma.


2. Check for any congenital defects during the autopsy


3. Perform x-rays to rule out skeletal injury. Presence of old or new injuries should lead investigators to suspect criminal abuse instead of SIDS.


4. Review infant and family medical records for previous infant deaths, illnesses, injuries, or behaviors.

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