Original: An autopsy -- also known as a post-mortem examination , necropsy ( particularly as to non-human animals ) , autopsia cadaverum , or obduction -- is a medical procedure that consists of a thorough examination of a corpse to determine the cause and manner of death and to evaluate any disease or injury that may be present .
Simplified: An autopsy ( also called post-mortem examination ) is a medical examination of a corpse to find out what killed it ( disease or injury ) .