Viscera retrieved at autopsy in a suspected case of strychnine poisoning must be forwarded to the forensic laboratory. Which preservative is appropriate for retaining alkaloidal poisons in the stomach contents?
- A 10 percent neutral buffered formalin
- B Rectified spirit ✓
- C Saturated solution of common salt
- D Absolute alcohol
Correct answer: B. Rectified spirit
Explanation
Rectified spirit is the preservative of choice for alkaloidal poisons such as strychnine, because saturated common salt solution is unsuitable for alkaloids and absolute alcohol interferes with some analyses. Saturated sodium chloride serves as the routine preservative for most other poisons, including corrosives and metallic ones. Formalin coagulates protein and destroys many organic poisons chemically, so it is reserved exclusively for pieces of tissue intended for histopathology, never for material sent for toxicological analysis.
Reference: Narayan Reddy, The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, 34th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.