Journal Published Online: 01 May 1987
Volume 32, Issue 3

Minimizing Analytical Interferences from Digoxin-Like Immunoreactive Substances (DLIS) in Cases of Digoxin Toxicity

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Recently, the value of therapeutic drug monitoring for digoxin has been called into question by the finding of endogenous digoxin-like immunoreactive substances (DLIS) in the serum of individuals, especially premature and full-term neonates, not being treated with digoxin. In some cases, values have been as high as 10 μg/L. Levels as high as 20 μg/L and 80 μg/g can be found in bile and meconium. Because of the magnitude of this interference, it is essential that methods be developed for measuring digoxin in the presence of DLIS. This is particularly important when such analyses are required in forensic science cases of suspected digoxin toxicity. This report outlines the high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) and radioimmunoassay (RIA) methods that we used in assessing the relative contribution made by digoxin, its metabolites, and DLIS to serum and tissue digoxin concentrations obtained by RIA in a forensic pediatric case of suspected digoxin toxicity.

Author Information

Seccombe, DW
Department of Pathology, Division of Clinical Chemistry, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Pudek, MR
Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Humphries, KH
University of British Columbia and research assistant, Lipid Research Group, Shaughnessy Hospital, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Pages: 8
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: JFS12369J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12369J