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Positive controls for fungal detection in tissue sections.
The American Journal of Medical Technology
|August 1, 1976
Summary
This study details a method for preparing fungal smears from Histoplasma capsulatum, Coccidioides immitis, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Aspergillus fumigatus. These smears serve as essential positive controls for the Grocott stain in diagnosing fungal infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Histopathology
- Diagnostic Microbiology
Background:
- Accurate identification of fungal pathogens is crucial for diagnosing infections.
- The Grocott stain is a standard method for visualizing fungi in tissue samples.
- Reliable positive controls are necessary for validating staining techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and describe a reproducible method for preparing positive control smears of key fungal species.
- To ensure the efficacy and accuracy of the Grocott stain for fungal detection in clinical specimens.
Main Methods:
- Lyophilized cultures of Histoplasma capsulatum, Coccidioides immitis, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Aspergillus fumigatus were rehydrated and dispersed.
- Smears were prepared on alcohol-cleaned slides, air-dried, and fixed using formaldehyde vapor and buffered formaldehyde.
- Prepared slides were stored at room temperature for use as positive controls.
Main Results:
- A standardized protocol for preparing fungal smears was established.
- The prepared smears demonstrated suitability as positive controls for the Grocott stain.
Conclusions:
- The described method provides reliable positive control slides for the Grocott stain.
- This technique aids in the accurate confirmation of fungal elements in tissue sections, improving diagnostic capabilities.