Several types of screening tests are commonly used in toxicology:
1. Immunoassays: These tests use antibodies to detect the presence of specific drugs or toxins. They are widely used due to their high sensitivity and specificity. 2. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): This technique is highly accurate and is often used as a confirmatory test following initial screening. 3. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): HPLC is another confirmatory test that separates, identifies, and quantifies components in a mixture. 4. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): Similar to immunoassays, ELISA is used to detect specific substances in a sample through enzyme-linked reactions. 5. Rapid Tests: These are point-of-care tests that provide quick results and are often used in emergency settings.
