Emedinews:Makesure:Reasons for false negative chemical analysis report of viscera

If the doctor conducting the autopsy has formed a conclusive opinion that the death is due to poisoning based on clinical evidence and after excluding other causes, he has all the authority to inform the investigating officer and mention his conclusive opinion in the postmortem report even if he is preserving the viscera for chemical analysis. A false negative test report may be 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 can give his opinion as to the cause of death (due to poisoning) despite negative viscera report.