Related Experiment Videos
Dagga-smoker's hand--a new physical sign?
D L Lamont1, J A Duflou, D Coates
1Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Cape Town.
Summary
Urine cannabinoid tests from 103 autopsies were compared to hand stains from suspected cannabis smoking. The Enzyme Multiplied Immuno-Technique (EMIT) urine assay showed variable correlation with physical indicators.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Cannabis use detection is crucial in medicolegal investigations.
- Assessing the reliability of different detection methods is essential for accurate forensic analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of urine cannabinoid testing with physical indicators of cannabis smoking.
- To evaluate the performance of the EMIT d.a.u. cannabinoid assay in a medicolegal autopsy context.
Main Methods:
- Medicolegal autopsies were conducted on 103 cases.
- Urine samples were analyzed for cannabinoids using the EMIT d.a.u. system.
- Hand stains, purportedly from cannabis smoking, were examined using the 'bottleneck' technique.
Main Results:
- The study compared urine cannabinoid test results with visual evidence of cannabis smoking on hands.
- Correlation between urine cannabinoid presence and hand stains was assessed.
- Experience with the EMIT d.a.u. cannabinoid assay system is detailed.
Conclusions:
- The study provides insights into the correlation between biochemical and physical markers of cannabis consumption.
- Findings contribute to understanding the utility and limitations of urine drug testing in forensic casework.