Interpretative Information

Methodology: Qualitative Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Detection of drugs in umbilical cord tissue is intended to reflect maternal drug use during approximately the last trimester of a full-term pregnancy. The pattern and frequency of drug(s) used by the mother cannot be determined by this test. A negative result does not exclude the possibility that a mother used drugs during pregnancy. Detection of drugs in umbilical cord tissue depends on extent of maternal drug use, as well as drug stability, unique characteristics of drug deposition in umbilical cord tissue, and the performance of the analytical method. Drugs administered during labor and delivery may be detected. Detection of drugs in umbilical cord tissue does not insinuate impairment and may not affect outcomes for the infant. Interpretive questions should be directed to the laboratory.