Forensic entomo-toxicology.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Toxicology
• Entomology

Background:

• Drug identification in decomposing remains is crucial for forensic investigations.
• Current case reports in forensic entomotoxicology are limited, and the existing database is unstructured.
• Standardized methods for drug analysis in decomposing bodies are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of forensic entomotoxicology.
• To highlight the importance of analyzing drug concentrations in various biological samples.
• To explore potential extensions of the analytical time frame and scope.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of drug concentrations in residual skeletal muscle.
• Analysis of drug concentrations in washed maggots.
• Determination of the specific fly species involved.

Main Results:

• Skeletal muscle and washed maggots are viable sources for drug analysis.
• Identification of the fly species is essential for accurate interpretation.
• Analysis of puparia presents a potential method for extending the post-mortem interval for drug detection.

Conclusions:

• Forensic entomotoxicology offers a valuable tool for post-mortem drug identification.
• Standardized protocols are needed to improve the reliability and scope of entomotoxicological analyses.
• Future research should investigate drug persistence in puparia and higher trophic levels.