An autopsy is an examination of a person’s body after death. A brain autopsy may provide information researchers can use to better understand the disease. It is important to make arrangements for an autopsy in advance in order to prepare the necessary documentation.

Some programs are grant funded and require advance enrollment. The best way to ensure that autopsy will occur is to enroll in a research study while the person with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia is still alive (see Research & Clinical Trials section). Most research centers will pay for the autopsy in order to advance the science. The decision to have an autopsy performed is a personal agreement among family members and should be arranged prior to death.

University of Southern California
Alzheimer’s Disease
Research Center
Brain Research Program
(323) 442-7600
adrc.usc.edu/brain-research-study

Mary S Easton Center
for Alzheimer’s Disease
Research at UCLA
Brain Donation Program
(310) 825-7846
eastonad.ucla.edu/index.php/patients-caregivers/brain-donation-program

The Human Brain and Spinal Fluid
Resource Center
Gift of Hope Brain Donor Program
(310) 268-3536
brainbank.ucla.edu/why-donate/gift-of-hope

UCI Mind
UC Irvine Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center
(949) 824-5032
mind.uci.edu/research-studies/brain-donation/

UCLA Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Autopsy/Decedent Affairs
Services include brain only autopsy
(310) 825-7846
pathology.ucla.edu/autopsy-decedent-affairs