Journal Published Online: 01 September 1994
Volume 39, Issue 5

Isolation of Amitriptyline and Nortriptyline from Fly Puparia (Phoridae) and Beetle Exuviae (Dermestidae) Associated with Mummified Human Remains

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The use of anthropophagic fly larvae (maggots) as alternative toxicological specimens is well documented in the entomological and forensic science literature. Detection of various toxins and controlled substances in insects found on decomposing bodies has contributed to the assessment of cause/manner of death. With the development of hair extraction technologies, attention has recently focused on the analysis of chitinized insect remnants which are frequently encountered with mummified/skeletalized remains. In such cases, the standard toxicological specimens are often absent. Herein, we report the first detection of drugs from chitinized insect tissues.

Author Information

Miller, ML
Forensic Science Research and Training Center, Laboratory Division, FBI Academy, Quantico, VA
Lord, WD
Forensic Science Research and Training Center, Laboratory Division, FBI Academy, Quantico, VA
Goff, ML
University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI
Donnelly, B
Chemistry and Toxicology Unit, Laboratory Division, FBI, Washington, DC
McDonough, ET
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Connecticut, Farmington, CT
Alexis, JC
University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
Pages: 9
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS13717J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13717J