What are the common diagnostic tests used in Toxicology?
Various diagnostic tests are employed to detect and quantify toxins and toxicants. Common tests include:
Blood Tests: Blood samples are often used to detect the presence of toxic substances such as heavy metals, alcohol, and drugs. Blood tests can provide quantitative data about the concentration of the toxin. Urine Tests: Urine tests are valuable for detecting substances that are metabolized and excreted by the kidneys. This test is particularly useful for drugs and metabolites. Hair Analysis: Hair samples can provide a timeline of exposure to certain toxins, offering insights into chronic exposure. Breath Tests: Commonly used for detecting alcohol, breath tests can quickly measure the concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream. Saliva Tests: These tests are increasingly being used for drug screening due to their non-invasive nature and ease of collection.
