NCJ Number
145581
Journal
Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal Volume: 26 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1993) Pages: 49-59
Date Published
1993
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This research focused on the effects of specific variables, including the anticoagulant/preservative used, the temperature and duration of storage, and the initial concentration of methemoglobin, on the level of methemoglobin in stored blood.
Abstract
The method used was a modification of the method presented by Fairbanks and Klee. Autopsy blood specimens and blood taken from healthy volunteers were studied. Results revealed that both the rate and direction of changes in methemoglobin concentration depend on all these variables. Within limits, however, it appears possible to deduce earlier levels of methemoglobin from values measured in stored specimens. Thus, within certain limits, it is possible to estimate the levels of methemoglobin prior to death from the values measured after death. This approach was used to conclude that a person had been fatally poisoned with sodium nitrite. Other researchers have also suggested the relevance of methemoglobin in investigation of poisoning by motor exhaust, nitrite, or other oxidizing agents. Tables, figures, and 7 references (Author abstract modified)