Antoine Boizet1, Julien Ognard1,2, Ons Hmandi3, Claire Saccardy4, David Bourhis1, Douraied Ben Salem2,5
Contribution of dual-energy computed tomography in
the differentiation of illicit drugs
1Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Brest, 29609 Brest Cedex, France
2LaTIM-INSERM UMR, Univ Brest, 29238 Brest Cedex 03, France
3Department of Legal Medicine Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
4Department of Forensic Medicine, University Hospital of Brest, 29609 Brest Cedex, France
5Forensic Imaging Department, University Hospital of Brest, 29609 Brest Cedex, France
Abstract
Aim of the study: The objective of this study was to compare the dual-energy behaviour of the main illicit substances
as well as their cutting agents in order to be able to differentiate them.
Material and methods: Cocaine, heroin, MDMA, and cannabis as well as 3 adulterants, 2 diluents, and water were
scanned at 90 kV and then at 140 kV on a single X-ray tube computed tomography (CT) scanner. The data acquired
enabled a mapping of the attenuation values to 90 and 140 kVp as well as a resulting dual-energy index (DEI) mapping.
Results: Drugs, cocaine, MDMA (pill), and cannabis had a positive DEI (0.014–0.008), while heroin and MDMA
(powder) had a negative DEI (–0.016 and –0.013). The DEI of water was –0.01 and that of taurine was –0.018. Adulterants
had negative DEI, while diluents had a positive DEI. All DEI were significantly different (p < 0.01).
Conclusions: Cocaine and heroin can be clearly differentiated using DEI.
Key words: dual-energy CT, dual-energy index, illicit drugs, bodypacking.
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