[Histonet] TB Exposure

[Jennifer MacDonald]

An important point that has not been mentioned.  Freezing propellants, such as Cyto-cool, should never be used with unfixed tissue.  If you refer to NCCLS Document M29-T
    "Frozen sections done on unfixed tissue pose a high risk because accidents are common.  Freezing does not inactivate infectious agents.  Freezing propellants under pressure should not be used for frozen sections as they may cause spattering of droplets of infectious materials."
 
Jennifer MacDonald
Mt. San Antonio College
 
 If we are
doing a frozen on TB infected lung tissue, with no hood or ventilation
drawing the air away from us, spraying Cyto-Cool all over it (probably
causing the bacteria to scatter all over), then why do we get fitted for
special masks to protect ourselves?  We do wear our masks if we know a
patient is infected with TB, but do not routinely wear them for every lung
case.  And, if we are only exposed by being with the patient, then we should
never have to wear our masks. 

How are others dealing with this?

Thanks in advance!!

Karen Bauer HT(ASCP)
Histology Supervisor


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