CFC Toxicology & Drug Analysis 4

Question 1

A decedent is found with cherry-red lividity. In addition to carbon monoxide, which other toxicant can produce this postmortem finding?

Accepted Answer

Cyanide

Answer

Cyanide inhibits cytochrome c oxidase, preventing oxygen utilization and leaving blood fully oxygenated, producing cherry-red lividity similar to CO poisoning.

Question 2

In liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), the term 'multiple reaction monitoring' (MRM) refers to:

Accepted Answer

Monitoring precursor-to-product ion transitions for quantitative drug confirmation

Answer

MRM monitors specific precursor ion to product ion transitions, providing high selectivity and sensitivity for quantitative confirmation of drugs in biological matrices.

Question 3

Which organ is the primary site of drug metabolism in the body?

Accepted Answer

Liver

Answer

The liver is the primary organ of drug metabolism, containing high concentrations of cytochrome P450 enzymes responsible for phase I biotransformation.

Question 4

A forensic case involves suspected poisoning with organophosphate pesticide. Which biomarker is most useful for confirming acute exposure?

Accepted Answer

Serum cholinesterase activity

Answer

Organophosphates irreversibly inhibit acetylcholinesterase; depressed serum (pseudo)cholinesterase activity confirms acute organophosphate exposure.

Question 5

Which schedule classification under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act applies to drugs with no currently accepted medical use and high abuse potential?

Accepted Answer

Schedule I

Answer

Schedule I substances (e.g., heroin, LSD, marijuana federally) have no accepted medical use, a high potential for abuse, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

(CFC) Certified Forensic Consultant Practice Test

(CFC) Certified Forensic Consultant Practice Test

CFC Toxicology & Drug Analysis 4