Clinical Chemistry 3 : Endocrinology, Toxicology and Drug Testing

Basically speaking, ENDOCRINOLOGY is the study of hormones. Hormones are chemicals produced by a cell and are transported to other cells. The said hormones carry specific messages or signals that would initiate a biological effect on other parts of the body. Hormones are originated in all forms of life with more than one cell, and so they are found in both animals and plants. They control a wide range of physiological activities, such as growth, development, puberty etc.

TOXICOLOGY is the science of poisons. It is also the study of the active relations of chemicals with living systems. It includes the identification of toxic substances, their properties, as well as their biologic effects and even the treatment of disease conditions that they cause. And when we say toxic substances, these are not solely used for killing, this substances contributes to the health and safety humankind and to the advancement of biological sciences including medicine in many different ways.

And DRUG TESTING is the scientific examination of a biological sample from the known specimen from the patient to determine the occurrence or absence of the alleged abused drug. One major factor to consider in this process is the approximate period of time to follow before testing the patient’s sample. With technical analysis, any form of drug abuse can be eliminated.

Reference/s:

• Toxicology by Haley, Thomas J.
• Drug Testing: What we all need to know by Ligocki, Kennet B.
• Basic and Clinical Endocrinology by Gardner, David G.