The effect of various fixatives on Y-chromosome detection in leucocytes

The effect of various fixatives on Y-chromosome detection in blood smears was examined. Fixatives containing alcohol or acetic acid seemed to be more suitable. Formaldehyde, Bouin's fluid and CrO3 gave poor results. Various storage conditions were examined. When comparing fixation in Carnoy's solution. Clarke's solution and Metha-Clarke the Y-body index was best preserved after fixation in Carnoy's solution. The earliest significant decrease using this fixative was after 5 weeks of storage in air. The authors recommend fixation in Carnoy's solution for the purpose of Y-chromosome detection.