DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/F2TJ-5003
Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3400-5745
Defense Date
2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Integrative Life Sciences
First Advisor
Dr. Michelle Peace
Second Advisor
Justin Poklis
Third Advisor
Dr. Karen Hendricks-Munoz
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Gwendolyn McMillin
Fifth Advisor
Carrie Adler
Abstract
An estimated 11% of neonates are affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs. Traditional neonatal matrices used for prenatal drug exposure are only available in limited quantity, difficult to collect, or require extensive sample preparation. Oral fluid, as demonstrated through its use in therapeutic drug monitoring of neonates and infants, is a desirable alternative matrix in detecting neonatal drug exposure. Oral fluid is available in large quantities, easy to collect, non-invasive, and does not require extensive sample preparation.
The overall aim of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of using oral fluid collection and analysis to mitigate challenges and limitations (i.e., limited specimen quantity, difficulty of collection, and extensive sample predation) of traditional specimens (i.e., meconium, umbilical cord, and urine) used to detect neonatal drug exposure. The research demonstrates that oral fluid is a suitable alternative matrix for the detection of neonatal drug exposure. As with other matrices, oral fluid has its limitations and requires special considerations for collection method, post-collection stability, and analytical capabilities. The selection of absorbent material can drastically affect the ability to detect drug exposure. The study proposes a neonatal oral fluid collection device composed of flocked nylon fibers affixed to a pliable applicator stick. The pliable applicator stick is connected to a syringe plunger for a needleless syringe barrel that connects to an amber storage tube containing a pH indicator. The research stresses the significance of extensive testing before adopting collection devices and the need for careful interpretation of results in their absence.
Rights
© Ashley M. Harris
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
8-10-2023
Included in
Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Commons, Biomedical Devices and Instrumentation Commons, Forensic Science and Technology Commons, Laboratory and Basic Science Research Commons, Maternal and Child Health Commons, Maternal, Child Health and Neonatal Nursing Commons, Medical Toxicology Commons, Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons, Toxicology Commons