[Histonet] Nails falling off slides

[McAnn, Sherrian]

What works for me is this.First I face the block (we don't use any
prepared softeners just regular processing) and then put the block in
ammonia water ( 1%) in a small container on my coldplate and let it soak
for a few minutes. I usually try not to go over 5 minutes but have gone
over that once or twice without problems. I then rinse about 10- 15
seconds.  I place the block back on my cold plate...allow it to get
really cold. I cut at 2.5 - 3 microns. USE POSITIVELY CHARGED SLIDES.
Once you cut the slides...(I usually cut about 3-6 slides so that I can
choose the best ones) put them in an oven for some time to DRY
THOROUGHLY.  We usually let them dry overnight for the best results .
We pick the  best ones the next day for H&E and PASF. Now... sometimes
we still have them wash off, but most of the time all or part stays on
at least a few slides.  I have been in this business for at least 25
years and this is an old method that we used "back in the day". It isn't
perfect but does seem to get pretty good results.  I wouldn't use  less
than pos. charged slides though. Hope that helps you....P.S. We have to
let the pathologists know that they  have to be patient when it comes to
nails or else they will get washed off slides.


-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
[mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jill Cox
Sent: Friday, November 22, 2013 7:48 AM
To: Histonet <@t> Lists. Edu
Subject: [Histonet] Nails falling off slides

Hi All,
I know this has been mentioned a few times but need some help with nails
falling off charged slides for H&E and PAS stains. I use Statlab nail
prep softener and also use the good charged slides. I heat them 2 times
for 25 minutes each. Is there an adhesive I can put on slide? Albumin?
Any help would be much appreciated, thanks in advance..

Jill Cox HT, (ASCP)
Histology Manager
Arrowhead Dermatology
7747 W Deer Valley Rd Ste 250
Peoria AZ 85382
480-257-7222


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