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Cyanide quantification in post-mortem biological matrices by headspace GC-MS.

Brigitte Desharnais¹, Geneviève Huppé, Martine Lamarche

¹Department of Toxicology, Laboratoire de Sciences Judiciaires et de Médecine Légale, 1701 rue Parthenais, Montréal (Québec) Canada H2K 3S7.

Forensic Science International

|July 10, 2012

Summary

A new method accurately quantifies cyanide in forensic samples. This headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry technique is crucial for analyzing post-mortem cases involving poisoning, suicide, or fire exposure.

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Area of Science:

Forensic Toxicology
Analytical Chemistry

Background:

Cyanide is a potent chemical asphyxiant relevant in forensic investigations.
Cases include suicide, accidental exposure, and fire-related fatalities.

Purpose of the Study:

Develop a precise quantification method for post-mortem cyanide determination.
Address the need for reliable analysis in diverse biological matrices.

Main Methods:

Headspace gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS).
Utilized a GS-GASPRO column and isotopically labeled cyanide ((13)C(15)N) as an internal standard.
Validated for blood, gastric contents, and aqueous solutions.

Main Results:

Achieved an extended linear dynamic range (0.07-50 μg/mL).

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Established a method detection limit of 0.02 μg/mL.

Demonstrated consistent calibration across different sample types, including challenging gastric contents.

Conclusions:

The validated HS-GC-MS method is highly effective for forensic cyanide quantification.
The method is robust and suitable for routine analysis in post-mortem forensic cases.
Reliable detection aids in determining cause of death in suspected cyanide poisoning.