Whole Blood Quality Assurance Control Samples for Forensic Toxicology

Pilot studies were undertaken to examine the feasibility of preparing freeze-dried whole blood samples containing drugs of Interest to be used as assay controls. The availability of such samples will enable analysts and laboratory managers to monitor analytical performance. A pilot batch of freezedried blood containing five compounds of forensic significance and a blank blood sample were prepared for reconstltution to 2.5-mL aliquots. Samples of each of these preparations were distributed to 55 laboratories in the USA and UK for analysis. A summary of the results Is presented along with comments on the feaslblllty of producing freeze-dried whole blood samples for use In forensic toxicology.