Untitled Flashcards Set

Toxicology

The study of the effects of toxins and chemicals on living organisms.

Screening tests

Preliminary tests that help rule out certain substances but do not specifically identify a drug.

Confirmatory tests

Laboratory tests that conclusively identify the specific drug in question.

Chromatography

A technique used to separate and analyze mixtures in toxicology.

Spectrophotometry

A method that uses light absorption to identify specific chemicals.

Toxin

A harmful substance produced by living organisms.

Toxicity

The degree to which a substance can harm humans or animals.

LD50

The lethal dose of a substance that kills 50% of a test population.

Chronic exposure

Long-term exposure to a toxin, usually at low doses.

Acute exposure

Short-term exposure to a high dose of a toxin.

Synergism

An interaction where the combined effect of substances is greater than the sum of their separate effects.

Antagonism

An interaction where the combined effect of substances is less than the sum of their individual effects.

What is the fastest exposure method for poisons into the body?

Injection into the circulatory system.

What information should a crime scene detective gather at a suspected poisoning scene?

Details about the victim's medical history, symptoms, and any relevant substances present.

What is the difference between screening tests and confirmatory tests?

Screening tests rule out certain chemicals; confirmatory tests specifically identify the drug.

What tissues can be collected for toxicology testing?

Blood, urine, vitreous humor, bile, gastric contents, hair/nails, and organ tissues.

What is the key distinction between Schedule I and Schedule II drugs?

Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse but an accepted medical use.

Name four US Federal Regulatory Agencies.

FDA, EPA, CPSC, DOT, OSHA.

What factors determine the toxicity of a substance?

Mode of entry, body weight, presence of other chemicals, exposure time, dosage, and chemical form.

How does spectrophotometry identify chemicals?

By absorbing specific wavelengths of light that produce unique patterns for each substance.

Distinguish between chronic and acute exposure.

Acute exposure is a high dose for a short time; chronic is a lower dose for a long time.

What is the symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Bright pink patches on the chest and thighs.

What is a type of field test for alcohol consumption?

Horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN).

What percentage of alcohol is excreted unchanged?

Approximately 5%.

How do you calculate and compare LD50?

The lower the LD50 value, the more dangerous the substance.