Roundup Exposure Results in Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Case Overview

This case study delves into an intricate medico-legal scenario involving an adult patient with a history of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. The individual developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), allegedly due to exposure to Roundup, a widely-used herbicide containing glyphosate and the surfactant POEA.

In the following years, the patient’s health significantly deteriorated, culminating in their death later that year. The legal team sought the expertise of a neuropathologist or forensic pathologist to review pertinent records associated with this matter. They also provided an opinion on causation.

Questions to the expert and their responses

How often do you review and analyze brain autopsy findings of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients?

As a board-certified forensic pathologist with over 13 years of experience, I have had limited opportunities to review and analyze brain autopsy findings of patients diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

This is primarily because individuals with prolonged significant natural diseases such as lymphoma typically do not fall under medical examiner or coroner jurisdiction.

What experience do you have reviewing and analyzing the comorbid effects of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease on the brain in conjunction with NHL? How might each disease's damage be identified in an autopsy?

In terms of my experience reviewing and analyzing the comorbid effects of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease on the brain in conjunction with NHL, it is imperative to note that each disease can cause identifiable damage during an autopsy. However, these cases are complex and require careful examination.

About the expert

This expert is a highly experienced forensic pathologist with over a decade of experience in the field, holding board certification in forensic pathology with a subspecialty in anatomic and clinical pathology. They have completed extensive training, including residencies in pathology at reputable medical schools and a fellowship in forensic pathology with a renowned Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Currently, they serve as an affiliate associate professor at a university and as a forensic pathologist and medical examiner for a coroner association, maintaining active membership in several professional societies such as the National Association of Medical Examiners and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

E-390859

Specialties:

Forensic Pathology