Ed,   
   
To help me better understand your question; if you are asking: if deception is detected or "suspected" during a polygraph exam in any one area during the exam, could you still pass the polygraph test...    
   
My opinion would be:   
   
All it takes to be deemed as "DI" {Deception Indicated} which would indeed translate into a failed polygraph test result, is to be suspected of deception on any single "one" subject area such as drug use, drug dealing, drug smuggling, theft, espionage, rape, etc., etc...    
   
On the other hand...   
   
If you're asking: if you are not truthful {but rather deceptive} on only one test area during a polygraph exam, could you still pass...  My position would be:   
   
Polygraph countermeasures are always an option to consider. However, you would then risk detection of using countermeasures during the exam. Polygraph testing is not reliable, regardless whether you decide to tell the truth or lie.   
 
Remember: 
   
Simply telling the truth does not guarantee a passing result with respect to polygraph testing. Properly employed countermeasures can easily defeat a polygraph exam. Likewise, truthful subjects are often accused of deception, thus resulting in a failed polygraph exam. This is known as a "false positive" result. 
 
False positive results are not uncommon. 
 
If you have not already done so, I suggest that you download and read {TLBTLD} available for free of charge, here on this website. 
 
Knowledge is power. Educate yourself on the tricks and deceit involved with polygraph testing, and decide for yourself. 
 
 
Good luck.   
   
triple x