Changes in authorship: Removal of author – after publication

COPE's guidance, as a flowchart, on Changes in authorship, Part (d) A request is received for the removal of an author after publication.

Ask why the author wishes to be removed from list – refer to journal guidelines orthe authorship declaration which should state that all authors meet the appropriate criteria. Ask if author suspects fraud or misconduct.

Other flowcharts in this series:

Part a)The corresponding author requests the addition of an extra author before publication.

Part b)The corresponding author requests removal of an author before publication.

Part c)A request is received for the addition of an extra author after publication.