[Histonet] Fixation and Immunos

[Secrest, Kimberly]

The possibly of using alcohol/formalin combination fixatives, Pen-fix has been brought up by pathologists and PAs, but there is also concern about the effects the fixative may have on immuno staining.   We have two XTs and Ventana has only tested with 10% formalin.  They did suggest that with alcoholic fixatives the cell conditioning may need to be decreased.
Does anyone use these fixatives on tissue where immunos are done, particularly with ventana products?  Do you notice any negative effects?  What about in situ hybridization?
Thanks

Kimberly Secrest HTL, QIHC
Histology Technical Specialist
West Virginia University Hospital