TOXBASE: A microcomputer database for post mortem toxicology

Abstract

A cheap microcomputer program for the storage, retrieval, and analysis of the results of toxicological investigations on samples obtained at necropsy was devised. The program was written using FoxBASE +, a dBase III clone, which is both cheaper and faster than other comparable software. The hardware requirements are an IBM PC compatible microcomputer, preferably with both hard and floppy disc drives, and a suitable printer. The system was found to be particularly useful when preparing reports for coroners and in retrieving data for administrators concerned with aspects of work in the laboratory. The system is flexible and can be readily adapted to other uses.