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Molecular detection of JC virus in embalmed, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded brain tissue
B H Amaker1, F W Chandler, L O Huey
1Medical College of Virginia, Department of Pathology, Richmond, USA.
Abstract:
Embalmed tissues are adequate for the detection of JC virus in lesions of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) by immunohistologic and molecular methods. JC virus was readily detected in embalmed brain tissue using immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH), and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Two brains were removed from bodies that had been embalmed at least 24 h prior to autopsy. They were subsequently post fixed in 10% buffered formalin for 10-14 days before dissection and molecular studies were performed. Though these techniques are not novel, their use in embalmed tissues is. Routine embalming should not eliminate these diagnostic procedures from consideration.
Insights
Embalmed tissues are suitable for detecting JC virus, the cause of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Standard diagnostic methods like PCR can identify JC virus in preserved brain tissue.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Virology
- Pathology
Background:
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare, fatal demyelinating disease of the brain.
- JC virus (JCV) is the causative agent of PML.
- Diagnostic challenges can arise when examining post-mortem tissues, particularly those that have undergone embalming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of standard diagnostic techniques for detecting JC virus in embalmed human brain tissues.
- To determine if the embalming process compromises the ability to identify JCV in tissues.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for visualizing viral proteins.
- In situ hybridization (ISH) for detecting viral genetic material.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for amplifying viral DNA.
- Analysis of brain tissue from two individuals subjected to standard embalming procedures.
Main Results:
- JC virus was successfully detected in embalmed brain tissue using IHC, ISH, and PCR.
- The methods confirmed the presence of JCV in lesions consistent with PML.
- Embalming procedures, including fixation in buffered formalin, did not prevent viral detection.
Conclusions:
- Embalmed tissues are adequate for the reliable detection of JC virus.
- Standard immunohistologic and molecular diagnostic methods remain effective for identifying JCV in embalmed brain samples.
- Routine embalming should not preclude the use of these diagnostic procedures for PML investigation.