In what type of situation is it acceptable to delay a necropsy?

Delaying a necropsy can be acceptable under specific circumstances, particularly when the body can be stored properly. Proper storage is crucial, as it ensures the preservation of the tissues for accurate examination and helps prevent decomposition, which could affect the results of the necropsy. When the body is maintained in appropriate conditions, such as refrigeration, it allows the necessary time for the examination to be conducted without compromising the integrity of the samples or the viability of the diagnostic process.

In situations where there is no immediate need for examination, while it may be tempting to delay the procedure, it is also essential to consider the implications on tissue viability. Similarly, sending the body elsewhere can complicate timing; however, if the body can be appropriately maintained throughout that process, it mitigates potential risks associated with delays. Thus, the ability to ensure proper storage is a critical factor that justifies postponing a necropsy.