The rate of autopsy is directly proportional to the accurate epidemiological study and quality control of medical care. The health status of a community is reflected by the children present who are going to be caretakers of the nation tomorrow. This study aims to analyze all autopsies performed in a tertiary care teaching hospital in south India during 10 consecutive years. A 10-year retrospective autopsy-based study (2001–2010) was undertaken by the department of forensic medicine and toxicology of Kasturba Medical College, Manipal to ascertain the profile of casualties in the paediatric age group. Out of 1778 autopsies performed during the period, 180 victims belonging to the paediatric age group formed the material for the study. The adolescent age group (12–19 years) was most commonly affected, with a significant male preponderance. More than half of the cases were reported in the first half of the year. A seasonal variation was noticed, with many cases being reported during the summer months. Many of the cases were accidental in nature with road traffic accident being the cause. There was much coexistence of the various parameters typical of both industrialized and developing countries, indicating the epidemiological transition. The need for a paediatric autopsy registry is stressed along with recommendations to reduce paediatric fatalities.

Key words: Paediatric autopsy, seasonal variation, adolescents