Extraction/Isolation methods for metallic, volatile and cyanide poisons from biological samples

In forensic autopsy case, the forensic pathologist may require a complete toxicological investigation for drugs, pesticides and other compounds. In India, Forensic Science Laboratories run by Government under the Home ministry usually carry this out. The samples have to be analyzed by the forensic toxicologist. This article deals with the extraction and isolation procedures for analysis of metallic, volatile and cyanide poisons. It attempts to simplify the standard procedures in a flow chart manner, which can be of handy reference for the forensic toxicologist. It is in continuation to the toxicology manual series article - I I in volume 10, number 2 issue of 2007.