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[Use of computers in forensic toxicology analysis]
Zeitschrift Fur Rechtsmedizin. Journal of Legal Medicine
|January 1, 1984
Summary
This study details a new computer system for identifying unknown substances using analytical data. The system rapidly matches measured data against a comprehensive database, improving toxicological analysis.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Computer Science
Context:
- Traditional methods for storing and retrieving analytical data on drugs and poisons were manual (card indexes, lists).
- A large volume of data (nearly 600 substances) accumulated over 10 years required efficient management.
- Need for rapid identification of unknown substances in clinical investigations.
Purpose:
- To develop a digital system for storing and retrieving analytical data on drugs and poisonous substances.
- To create software for rapid identification of unknown compounds using diverse analytical data.
- To enable easy expansion and updating of the substance database.
Summary:
- Analytical data from over 600 substances, previously stored manually, is now managed on a clinic host computer using magnetic tapes/disks.
- Custom FORTRAN software facilitates rapid data recall and matching of measured analytical data (TLC, GC, UV/IR, HPLC) against the stored collection.
- The system allows for identification of unknown substances through selective or sequential data evaluation with variable tolerances.
Impact:
- Enables faster and more accurate identification of toxic substances in clinical settings.
- Provides a scalable and easily updatable digital database for toxicological analysis.
- Streamlines the process of drug and poison identification, aiding diagnostic and treatment decisions.