False negative chemical analysis report of viscera-autopsy
The doctor who conducts an autopsy in case of death due to poisoning and after ruling out any other cause of death and based on clinical evidence, if he forms a conclusive opinion that the death is due to poisoning and even has clinical evidence, he has all the authority to inform the investigating officer. He must mention in his postmortem report his conclusive opinion and that he is preserving viscera for chemical analysis. A false negative test report may be received due to:
· Delay in chemical analysis
· Improper preservation
· Use of wrong analytical technique
· Early disintegration of poison
· Complete metabolism
· Lack of suitable test for certain poison
In accordance with a judicial pronouncement, the doctor who has conducted the postmortem examination, on the basis of his examination and findings suggestive of poisoning in postmortem can give his opinion regarding the cause of death to be due to poisoning in spite of negative viscera report.
[Contributed by Dr Sudhir Gupta]
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