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Computer storage of toxicology methods and postmortem drug determinations
Forensic Science International
|November 1, 1983
Summary
New Zealand toxicologists developed two databases, TOXFILE and TOXMETH, for storing postmortem drug and poison levels and analytical methods. These systems improve data management and confidentiality for toxicological case analysis.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Database Management
Background:
- Traditional card systems for storing toxicological data were inefficient and difficult to manage.
- A need existed for a standardized, secure, and easily retrievable system for postmortem drug and poison data and analytical methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement two comprehensive databases for toxicological information.
- To enhance the storage, retrieval, and interpretation of postmortem drug and poison levels.
- To document and manage analytical methods used in toxicology laboratories.
Main Methods:
- Development of TOXFILE database for storing analytical results from toxicological cases.
- Creation of TOXMETH database for cataloging and managing analytical methods.
- Implementation of data encryption and name anonymization for enhanced security and confidentiality.
Main Results:
- TOXFILE provides a superior method for storing toxicological data compared to previous card systems.
- The databases facilitate efficient data retrieval and include references to analytical methods for result interpretation.
- Published report (Chemistry Division Report No. CD: 2195, 1983) details programs and instructions for database use.
Conclusions:
- The developed TOXFILE and TOXMETH databases represent a significant advancement in toxicological data management.
- These systems enhance data integrity, accessibility, and security in forensic toxicology.
- The databases are available on magnetic tape for wider dissemination and use by other laboratories.