Ethanol concentrations in antemortem blood samples under controlled conditions

Abstract

Aim: The change of antemortem blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in inadequately processed samples was examined. Methods: The study was performed on nine healthy, sober volunteers after overnight fasting. Blood samples were divided into groups and stored, with or without NaF, for varying time periods (12, 24 and 48 h) and at different temperatures (4°C and 20°C). BAC analysis was performed by the gas-chromatography method. Result: All groups showed very low values of BAC. Conclusion: Surprisingly, this study showed no ethanol production in improperly processed antemortem blood samples in healthy and sober individuals who were subjected to overnight fasting. © The Author 2008. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Medical Council on Alcohol. All rights reserved.