Pathologist and HIV--are safe autopsies possible?

Pathologists are at particularly high risk for blood contamination and skin injuries, so they are vulnerable to blood borne pathogens, like HIV. This article describes the first and the only one documented case of occupational HIV transmission in the world concerning American pathologist. The factors increasing the risk of contracting infection during the autopsy on the patient who has died of AIDS are considered. World-known recommendations to follow in such autopsy are described. The importance of compliance with universal precautions and the necessity of knowledge of the post-exposure prophylaxis are pointed as a way to avoid HIV infection.