[Toxicological analysis. Methodology, indication, and evaluation]

Abstract

Clinical toxicological analysis can significantly contribute toward the confirmation or exclusion of poisoning, especially if clinical signs and symptoms of unknown origin have to be explained. It may be of help when planning specific, but risky, poisoning therapies. Besides frequently used immunoassays for the detection of drugs of abuse, of a small number of medical drugs, and of amatoxins. Chromatographic methods with mass-selective detectors are available in specialized toxicology laboratories. The results of toxicological analyses have to be evaluated and interpreted carefully. Poison control centers can offer support for all medical aspects of poisoning including lab investigations.