Forensic Toxicology Lecture Review

A set of flashcards designed to review key concepts related to forensic toxicology from the lecture notes.

What is the definition of forensic toxicology?

Forensic toxicology pertains to legal proceedings and the application of findings to death/property investigations and post-mortems.

What are the three steps of forensic investigation?

1) Obtain case history and specimens, 2) Conduct toxicological analyses, 3) Interpret toxicological findings.

What is the typical specimen collected for toxicological analysis?

Typical specimens include blood, urine, liver, and stomach contents.

What analytical method is used to detect gases?

Gas chromatography (GC) is used to detect gases.

What is the role of chain-of-custody in forensic toxicology?

Chain-of-custody tracks who was in charge of the specimen at all times, ensuring evidence can be presented in court.

What are common extraction methods in analytical toxicology?

Common methods include extraction, immunoassays, colorimetric assays, chromatography, and mass spectrometry.

What kinds of substances are evaluated in forensic toxicology?

Forensic toxicology evaluates gases, volatile substances, corrosive agents, metals, anions, non-volatile organic substances, and miscellaneous substances.

What is one way to confirm the presence of a poison post-mortem?

The presence and amount of a suspected poison can be confirmed through toxicological analysis.

What is the importance of the interval between the onset of symptoms and death in toxicology?

It helps to determine the cause of death and assess any potential toxic substances present.

What should be considered when interpreting toxicological findings?

Factors include the type of chemical, concentrations in specific tissues, the route of administration, and post-mortem changes.