[Histonet] Xylene Substitutes

[Jeffrey Thompson]

Hello Histonetters,

This may be an old, tired, and oft asked question, but what ARE the
health risks of the d-limonene containing xylene alternatives? The
butylated hydroxyanisole in Fisher's CitriSolv is a carcinogen 'suspect'
and there are many MSDS mentions of the possible allergen status of
d-limonene.  Many also are the stories of headaches caused by the stuff.
Biodegradable qualities notwithstanding, I personally don't think these
products are as 'mother's milk' safe as some seem to think (I don't
think they should be poured down the sink for instance). As a group who
may use these products more and in a greater volume than any other, I'd
like to hear what the histology community thinks about use, handling,
and disposal regardless of what the various MSDS's have to say. Thanks,

Jeff

Jeffrey F. Thompson
Associate Scientist
University of New Mexico
Health Sciences Center
Department of Neurology
BRF Room 136
915 Camino de Salud NE
Albuquerque, NM 87131 
USA

jefthompson <@t> salud.unm.edu

Phone: (505) 272-8010
FAX: (505) 272-0607