A miniaturised image based fluorescence detection system for point-of-care-testing of cocaine abuse. (16th July 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Walczak, Rafał; Krüger, Jan; Moynihan, Shane
• Is Part Of: Measurement science & technology. Volume 26:Number 8(2015:Aug.)
• Publication Date: 2015-07-16
• Subjects: fluorescence -- CCD -- immunochromatographic -- cocaine -- human sweat -- point-of-care testing; Physical measurements -- Periodicals; Scientific apparatus and instruments -- Periodicals; Equipment and Supplies -- Periodicals; Science -- instrumentation -- Periodicals; Technology -- instrumentation -- Periodicals; Mesures physiques -- Périodiques; Physical measurements; Scientific apparatus and instruments; Periodicals; 502.87
• DOI: 10.1088/0957-0233/26/8/085401
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0957-0233

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper, we describe a miniaturised image-based fluorescence detection system and demonstrate its viability as a highly sensitive tool for point-of-care-analysis of drugs of abuse in human sweat with a focus on monitor individuals for drugs of abuse. Investigations of miniaturised and low power optoelectronic configurations and methodologies for real-time image analysis were successfully carried out. The miniaturised fluorescence detection system was validated against a reference detection system under controlled laboratory conditions by analysing spiked sweat samples in dip stick and then strip with sample pad. As a result of the validation studies, a 1 ng mL −1 limit of detection of cocaine in sweat and full agreement of test results with the reference detection system can be reported. Results of the investigations open the way towards a detection system that integrates a hand-held fluorescence reader and a wearable skinpatch, and which can collect and in situ analyse sweat for the presence of cocaine at any point for up to tenths hours.