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Published:
Journal of Analytical Toxicology,
ISSN 0146-4760,
Volume 26,
Number 1, April 2002, pp. 113-118
CASE REPORT: Distribution Study of 3,4-Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine
and 3,4-Methylenedioxy-amphetamine in a Fatal Overdose
Els A. De Letter[1], Karine M. Clauwaert[2], Willy
E. Lambert[3], Jan F. Van Bocxlaer[2], André P. De Leenheer[2],[3], and
Michel H.A. Piette[1]
1Ghent University, Department of Forensic Medicine, J. Kluyskensstraat 29, B-9000
Ghent, Belgium; 2Ghent University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Clinical
Analysis, Harelbekestraat 72, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium; and 3Ghent University,
Department of Toxicology, Harelbekestraat 72, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
In this study, regional tissue distributions of the amphetamine
analogue 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) and its
metabolite 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) in a fatal overdose are presented.
Quantitation of MDMA and MDA levels occurred in blood samples taken centrally
(right and left heart and main adjacent great vessels) and peripherally (subclavian
and femoral blood). In addition, MDMA and MDA concentrations were determined
in cardiac and iliopsoas muscle, both lungs, liver, both kidneys, spleen, the
four brain lobes, cerebellum and brainstem, and adipose tissue. Finally, MDMA
and MDA levels were determined in serum, vitreous humor, urine, and bile. For
all samples, a fully validated high-pressure liquid chromatography procedure
with fluorescence detection was used. The found substances were also identified
with liquid chromatographytandem mass spectrometry. Our data confirm that
blood sampling from an isolated peripheral vein is recommended for MDMA and
MDA. In addition, the vitreous humor MDMA level indicates that this fluid can
be an interesting alternative when a suitable blood sample is missing. Considering
the substantial differences in concentrations in blood samples taken from various
sites in the body and the high levels in some tissues (e.g., in liver), we concluded
that the influence of postmortem redistribution should be taken into account
in the interpretation of toxicological data when an appropriate peripheral sample
cannot be obtained or when blood samples are not available because of putrefaction.
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