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The distribution of ethanol in postmortem blood specimens
E J Briglia1, J H Bidanset, L A Dal Cortivo
1Toxicology Laboratory, Division of Forensic Sciences, Suffolk County, Hauppauge, New York.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Ethanol testing at autopsy shows significant blood alcohol concentration variability between sampling sites, especially with high stomach alcohol levels. These findings impact forensic toxicology and postmortem ethanol analysis.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Postmortem Medicine
Background:
- Accurate ethanol determination is crucial in forensic investigations.
- Variability in postmortem ethanol levels can complicate interpretation.
- Standardization of sampling sites is needed for reliable results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the variability of ethanol concentrations in different postmortem specimens.
- To identify factors influencing ethanol distribution in cadavers.
- To assess the reliability of various sampling sites for ethanol analysis.
Main Methods:
- Gas chromatography was used to quantify ethanol levels.
- Multiple tissues and body fluids were analyzed from 61 autopsy cases.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare ethanol concentrations across sites.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found between various blood sampling sites overall.
- However, significant variability (up to 428%) was observed within individual cases.
- Larger variances correlated with higher stomach alcohol concentrations (≥0.50%).
Conclusions:
- Postmortem blood ethanol levels can vary substantially between sampling sites within a single cadaver.
- High stomach alcohol content is a key factor contributing to this variability.
- Careful consideration of sampling site and potential distribution issues is essential for accurate postmortem ethanol interpretation.