Application of the DBS/LC-MS method in the analysis of forensic samples

Dried Blood Spot (DBS) cards are gaining popularity in medicine and toxicology due to their versatility and efficiency. This study aimed to develop and optimize a comprehensive method for the detection of 16 psychoactive substances in post-mortem blood samples using the DBS technique, with comparative analysis against the routinely applied LC-SRM-MS method. The research focused on improving sample preparation proposed in the previous work. Key modifications, such as enhancing the extraction process and eliminating filtration steps, resulted in an increased sample concentration, improving LOD. Key modifications, such as enhancing the extraction process and eliminating filtration steps, resulted in a twelvefold increase in analyte concentration, improving LOD. The DBS/LC-MS method was validated, demonstrating high precision, reproducibility, and sensitivity for a broad range of psychoactive substances. Comparative analysis showed that the DBS/LC-MS method produced results consistent with the LC-SRM-MS method, with the added advantage of lower LOD for certain analytes. The study confirms the reliability of the DBS method in forensic toxicology and highlights its benefits, including reduced sample volume, making it a valuable alternative in toxicological and forensic applications. In Poland, prosecutors decide on toxicological tests and the storage of biological material, often leading to delayed decisions when samples are no longer available. A solution could be the routine use of DBS cards, which are cost-effective to store and could aid investigations.