The analysis of keratin material obtained from the distal portion of digits to detect the presence of drugs or their metabolites constitutes a specific form of substance abuse screening. This methodology provides a historical record of drug ingestion over a period extending several months. For example, a positive result from this type of assay indicates drug exposure within the preceding 3 to 6 months, contingent on the rate of nail growth.
This testing modality offers several advantages over traditional methods like urine or hair analysis. Notably, specimen collection is non-invasive and can be easily observed, reducing the possibility of adulteration or substitution. Furthermore, the extended detection window provides a more comprehensive view of an individual’s drug use history, potentially revealing patterns of abuse that might be missed by shorter-term detection methods. Its development and application have provided forensic science with a longer-term alternative to urinalysis and a less invasive option compared to hair follicle testing.
