HPLC in Toxicological Analyses Examples

In January 2008, Australian actor Heath Ledger was found dead, and toxicology analysis revealed the presence of prescription medication. Oxycodone and hydrocodone (opioid analgesics) diazepam, temazepam, and alprazolam (benzodiazepines) and doxylamine (antihistamine) were all found in the samples from the deceased. The coroner in the case concluded that death was due to the combined effects of these drugs. As mentioned, GC-MS has been the gold standard for these types of analyses however, LC-MS/MS in particular is being reported in the scientific literature. 

The use of hyphenated LC systems has taken off over the last few years. As a profession, we still have some way to go before LC-MS and LC-MS find their place in analysis as GC-MS has done. 

Fibres are ubiquitous they are found in the clothing that we wear and the upholstery of our homes, places of work, and vehicles. Fibres can also be transferred from surfaces or from people, depending upon how much the fibres from the garment being worn shed and the ability of the receiving garment to accept those fibres (transfer and persistence of fibres). 

Fibres are the single strands of a polymer, whether natural or synthetic, that are spun together to produce yarns used in the manufacture of fabric to produce garments and upholstery (as well as other applications). These fibres or yarns will have been treated before they are used to produce the fabric, and part of this treatment will involve the application of colour or dyeing in order to make the garments and fabrics more appealing to the consumer. Due to their commonality, it is not surprising that fibres are frequently submitted to the forensic laboratory for analysis. 

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