Forensic Toxicology

Forensic toxicology is the branch of forensic science concerned with the detection and interpretation of poisons, drugs, alcohol and other harmful chemicals in biological specimens. It plays a crucial role in cases of poisoning, drug abuse, drunken driving, doping and unexplained deaths.

Toxicologists analyse samples such as blood, urine, stomach contents, viscera, hair and tissues using techniques like chromatography (GC, HPLC), spectrometry (mass spectrometry, UV) and immunoassays to identify and quantify toxic substances, and to interpret their effect on the human body.

Classification of Poisons

Poisons are broadly classified as corrosives, irritants, neurotics (affecting the nervous system), cardiac poisons, asphyxiants and miscellaneous agents. Understanding their action helps the toxicologist correlate analytical findings with observed signs and symptoms.

Analytical Techniques

Modern toxicology relies on Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), spectrophotometry and immunoassay screening to detect trace amounts of drugs and poisons in complex biological matrices.