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Proficiency testing in forensic toxicology: a feasibility study.

M A Peat, J S Finnigan, B S Finkle

    Journal of Forensic Sciences
    |January 1, 1983
    PubMed
    Summary
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    A national proficiency testing program for forensic toxicology is feasible, using animal tissue samples. While generally accurate, the program identified challenges in detecting certain drugs and significant variations in quantitative analysis.

    Area of Science:

    • Forensic Toxicology
    • Analytical Chemistry
    • Laboratory Science

    Background:

    • Proficiency testing is crucial for ensuring accuracy and reliability in forensic toxicology laboratories.
    • Existing methods for drug detection and quantification face challenges in interlaboratory consistency.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To assess the feasibility of a national proficiency testing program in forensic toxicology.
    • To evaluate the performance of laboratories in detecting and quantifying drugs in simulated forensic samples.
    • To establish a baseline for laboratory capabilities in analytical forensic toxicology.

    Main Methods:

    • Preparation and distribution of simulated forensic specimens (animal liver homogenates) to approximately 100 participating laboratories.
    • Inclusion of various drugs, including pentobarbital, methaqualone, propoxyphene, acetaminophen, secobarbital, morphine, and codeine.

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  • Analysis of both qualitative (presence/absence) and quantitative (concentration) data from participating labs.

    • Main Results:

    • High participation rates (61-73%) indicate feasibility and willingness to engage.
    • Animal tissue samples effectively simulated casework specimens.
    • Low false positive rates were observed, but low concentrations of secobarbital and opiates were underreported.
    • Significant interlaboratory variation in the quantification of drugs (except ethanol) was noted, despite the predominant use of gas chromatography.

    Conclusions:

    • A national proficiency testing program for forensic toxicology is achievable.
    • The program highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in the detection of specific drugs and the consistency of quantitative analysis.
    • Established baseline performance data can guide future improvements in analytical forensic toxicology.