ABSTRACT
A poison is defined in the Oxford English Dictionary as “a substance that, when introduced into or absorbed by a living organism, causes death or injury, especially one that kills by rapid action even in small quantities.” In the context of the current chapter, this is broadened to include those substances which are essential in small amounts for life, but which when absorbed/administered in large amounts are toxic; for example, iron and vitamin A. Chemical and biochemical tests are available for a wide range of potential poisons, with the more common being:
• Therapeutic drugs, for example acetaminophen, aspirin, antidepressants, tranquilizers, and iron preparations
• Ethanol, ethylene glycol, and methanol
• Drugs of abuse
• Carbon monoxide
• Metals, especially lead (includes essential and nonessential metals)
• Poisonous plants Other cases of poisoning occur, for example those involving household and
garden products, where laboratory testing is rarely required in the management of the patient.
