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Postmortem Journals | Open Access Journals
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Human Genetics & Embryology

ISSN: 2161-0436

Open Access

Postmortem Journals

The preanalytical phase has been recognized to possess a considerable role for the standard and reliability of analytical results, which considerably depend upon the sort and quality of specimens provided. There are several unique challenges to select and collect specimens for postmortem toxicology investigation. Postmortem specimens could also be numerous, and sample quality could also be quite variable. An overview is given on specimens routinely collected as well as on alternative specimens that may provide additional information on the route of administration, a long term or a recent use/exposure to a drug or poison. Autolytic and putrefactive changes limit the choice and utility of specimens. Some data from case reports as well as experimental investigations on drug degradation and/or formation during putrefaction are discussed. Diffusion processes also as post-mortem degradation or formation may influence ethanol concentration in autopsy specimens. These changes are thanks to alterations of the biological matrix also on dilution of a sample, release or degradation of the drug or poison. The advantages and disadvantages of specimen preservation are shortly discussed. Storage stability is another important issue to be considered. The knowledge on degradation mechanisms may enable the forensic toxicologist to focus on the proper substance, which can be a serious break down product within the investigation of highly labile compounds. There is often cross-over with different disciplines, especially with clinical and forensic toxicology, since some endogenous substances like common salt, K-Dur 20, and insulin are often used as poisons. The unpredictability of post-mortem changes means use of biochemical measurements in time of death estimation has little value.

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Relevant Topics in Genetics & Molecular Biology

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Citations: 309

Human Genetics & Embryology received 309 citations as per Google Scholar report

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