Hair analysis for organic analytes

Hair Analysis for Organic Analytes Methodology, Reliability Issues, and... 

Another major source of contamination in an analysis can be the analyst. It depends on what kind of analytes are being measured, but when trace or ultratrace levels of elements or molecules are being determined, the analyst can be a part of the analytical problem. Many personal care items, such as hand creams, shampoos, powders, and cosmetics, contain significant amounts of chemicals that may be analytes. The problem can be severe for volatile organic compounds in aftershave, perfume, and many other scented products and for sihcone polymers, used in many health and beauty products. Powdered gloves may contain a variety of trace elements and should not be used by analysts performing trace element determinations. Hair, skin, and clothing can shed cells or fibers that can contaminate a sample. 

Most biological samples analysed by GC/MS or LC/MS need sample preparation, depending on the matrix content and concentration of the analyte. In cHnical and forensic toxicology, for example, body fluids such as blood/serum and urine have to be analysed as weU as tissue samples (organs, muscle), stomach contents, and hair [45]. In environmental toxicology, sewage sludge, sediments, waste water, or plant material contain only traces of the analytes of interest, thus concentration and clean-up steps are necessary prior to analysis. 

---