ISSN: 2041-6792

Clinical Investigation

Forensic Toxicology Journals

Forensic toxicology concerns the analysis of biological specimens (fluids and tissues) for the presence and, often, the concentration of drugs and poisons. The results of the analyses must be correlated with the circumstances of the case to determine what role, if any, the detected substances played. This correlative function is commonly called interpretation. This article will examine the three major subspecialties of forensic toxicology and the various factors that enter into the interpretation process in each. The forensic toxicology laboratory exists for the sole purpose of providing interpretable analytical data. Therefore, the analytical strategy is designed with anticipation of the need for later interpretation. The most appropriate specimens should be analyzed by sensitive, specific, and quantitatively accurate and precise techniques to yield reliable data upon which to base opinions. The toxicologist must be absolutely certain that the analytical data are accurate. Furthermore, the samples must be properly preserved and clearly traceable to the subject of the investigation by an unbroken chain of custody, and handled and stored with a level of security sufficient to preclude tampering. The choice of specimen(s) and the scope of analysis are determined largely by the purpose of the investigation. Modern forensic toxicology can be divided into three major categories: forensic urine drug testing (FUDT), human performance toxicology, and postmortem toxicology. FUDT seeks evidence of illegal drug use by current or prospective employees.    

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