Comparison between Blood, Non-Blood Fluids and Tissue Specimens for the Analysis of Cannabinoid Metabolites in Cannabis-Related Post-Mortem Cases

Cannabis use is widespread and one of the most common drugs encountered in forensic-related analysis (antemortem postmortem cases). However, correlation between illicit cannabis death rarely investigated, even while taking into consideration its role central nervous system depression cardiovascular disorders. Few studies have discussed other non-blood specimens; this has brought a special interest analyzing THC metabolites different body parts order to make precise forensic decisions. Herein, we are investigating presence Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) metabolites:(11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-OH) 11-nor-Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxy (THC-COOH)) specimens. Forty-three cases bodily fluids tissue post-mortem samples, previously found be cannabinoid-positive were analyzed current investigation using alkaline hydrolysis followed by solid phase extraction LC-MS/MS for concentration. In study, highest median THC-COOH THC-OH concentrations detected bile samples (1380 ng/mL 8 ng/mL, respectively), concentration was gastric contents (48 ng/mL). This can explained due distribution blood tissues accumulation following multiple doses. Furthermore, high levels undergoing cycles entero-hepatic circulation which resulted significant increase contents. best indicator detect cannabinoids toxicology studies, thus inclusion active essential investigations. Additionally, could influenced mass index. all types specimens suitable testing cannabinoid metabolites, except vitreous humor showed low rates detectability metabolites.