Detection of neonatal drug exposure using umbilical cord tissue and liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry

Abstract

Background: A method for qualitative detection of 57 drugs and metabolites in umbilical cord tissue using liquid chromatography time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry is described.

Methods: Results from 32 deidentified positive specimens analyzed by an outside laboratory using "screen with reflex to confirmation" testing were compared with TOF results. In addition, 57 umbilical cord tissue specimens paired with corresponding chart review data and 37 with meconium test results were analyzed by TOF. Urine drug test results from mother (n = 18) and neonate (n = 30) were included if available. Cutoff concentrations, recovery, and matrix effects were determined by analyzing fortified drug-free cord tissue and negative specimens. Cutoffs (in nanograms per gram) ranged from 1 to 10 for opioids and opioid antagonists, 5-10 for benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics, 20-40 for barbiturates, 8 for stimulants, and 4 for phencyclidine. Adequate sensitivity for the detection of cannabis exposure could not be realized with this method.

Conclusions: Liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry can provide accurate and sensitive detection of in utero drug exposure using umbilical cord tissue.