Using Scrapings from Formalin-Fixed Tissues to Diagnose Leptospirosis by Fluorescent-Antibody Techniques
Abstract
Small specimens of formalin-fixed tissues approximately 1 x 1 x 0.2 cm were cut from the suspect speciment. Several clean microscope slides were dipped in 1% aqueous gelatin and air-dired or dried on a slide warmer. Each tissue specimen was washed in running tap water for 2-5 min and then lightly scraped with a straight knife blade, cutting edge perpendicular to the surface of the speciment. The scrapings were allowed to build up and cling to the knife blade, which was then turned so that the broad surface contacted the slide; thus, the scrapings could be smeared onto the slide in a single motion. Sufficient pressure was applied to embed the tissue fragments in the gelatin coating. Smears, dried in air or on a slide warmer, were stained immediately by a standard direct or indirect technique to detect fluorescein-labeled antigens. This scraping method, adapted to the study of leptospirosis by fluorescent- antibody technique, could reduce the need for cryostat-cut tissues and facilitate the observation of individual leptospires.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0748549
Entities
People
- Embert H. Coles
- F. M. Garner
- James E. Cook
- Lee G. Luna
Organizations
- Armed Forces Institute of Pathology