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

Arch Med Sadowej Kryminol

LaTIM-INSERM UMR, Univ Brest, 29238 Brest Cedex 03, France.

Published: January 2020

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.

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http://dx.doi.org/10.5114/amsik.2020.104536DOI Listing

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