[Histonet] quantitative iron testing/processor solutions

[Vinnie Della Speranza]

I would appreciate the comments of anyone on this list who might comment on the ability of a dye to influence quantitative iron studies. I will try to investigate the methodology of quantitative iron assay. Methylene blue clearly does not contain "iron" in any form unless it is a possible contaminant in dye powders. clearly every dye powder contains hon-dye materials that may be the byproducts of the dye's synthesis.

so in this example, which is the methylene blue dye itself or the non-dye material associated with the dye? I'm making this statement specifically because Dana's desire to substitute a different dye may not eliminate her problem.

I am copying Dr. Dapson on this message (don't know if he monitors this list) in the hope that he might comment on the impurities of dyes and what the constituants of the impurities may be. If anyone has Dr. Kiernan's email address would you please forward to him???

Many laboratories color processor alcohols with some dye. we use eosin so this problem could be more widespread than anyone has realized.



Vinnie Della Speranza
Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services
Medical University of South Carolina
165 Ashley Avenue  Suite 309
Charleston, SC 29425
Ph: 843-792-6353
fax: 843-792-8974

>>> "Hoops, Maureen" <MaureenHoops <@t> texashealth.org> 06/18/04 10:06AM >>>

Our lab recently had a case sent out for quantitative iron analysis that
yielded abnormal results.  The pathologists requested we submit a sample of
the methylene blue dye we had been using to color our processing alcohols.
Based upon the sample assays, the methylene blue was the cause of the
elevated metal levels. This raises several questions --
Do other laboratories utilize methylene blue coloring in their processor
solutions?
If so, have you ever experienced a similar situation with heavy metal
testing?
Does anyone use Fast Green (Light Green) for a coloring agent in the
alcohols of their processor?  If so, does it interfere with testing?
Does anyone know of an agent we can use to color our alcohols (tissues) that
does not hinder quantitative iron and/or heavy metal analysis?
Thanks for your help
Dana



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