Abstract
We compared the efficacy of skin surface air sampling with thin layer chromatography (TLC) in detecting drugs in patients admitted to hospital with a history of drug overdose. The methodology utilizes air samples in contact with skin surfaces and ion-mobility spectrometry. Fifty patients consented to skin surface air sampling and provided urine samples. Of the 51 drugs identified in 43 patients, air sampling detected just over 50% of the drugs, TLC identified about 90%. The rate of identification was greater in patients ingesting uncoated tablets. Skin surface air sampling is a useful initial screening method for drugs especially when they are ingested in tablet or powder form. The methodology is rapid, non-invasive and can screen for multiple drugs.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1-3 |
| Number of pages | 3 |
| Journal | International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology Therapy and Toxicology |
| Volume | 26 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 1988 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus Subject Areas
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology (medical)