Contribution of dual-energy computed tomography in the differentiation of illicit drugs

INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to compare the dual-energy behaviour of the main illicit substances as well as their cutting agents in order to be able to differentiate them. MATERIAL AND METHODS Cocaine, heroin, MDMA, and cannabis as well as 3 adulterants, 2 diluents, and water were scanned at 90 kV and then at 140 kV on a single X-ray tube computed tomography (CT) scanner. The data acquired enabled a mapping of the attenuation values to 90 and 140 kVp as well as a resulting dual-energy index (DEI) mapping. RESULTS Drugs, cocaine, MDMA (pill), and cannabis had a positive DEI (0.014-0.008), while heroin and MDMA (powder) had a negative DEI (-0.016 and -0.013). The DEI of water was -0.01 and that of taurine was -0.018. Adulterants had negative DEI, while diluents had a positive DEI. All DEI were significantly different (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Cocaine and heroin can be clearly differentiated using DEI.