[Histonet] Davidson's fixative and IHC question

[Bob Richmond]

Several queries about the possible effect of Davidson's fixative on
immunohistochemistry.

I have a lot of experience with Davidson's fixative, but none with its
effect on IHC.

Davidson's fixative is easily prepared:

3 parts tap water
3 parts ethanol or reagent alcohol
2 parts 37% formalin (not neutral buffered formalin)
1 part glacial acetic acid

It is quite destructive to H & E staining if fixation is at all prolonged.
Tissue should be taken out of it in not more much more than 24 hours.

The history of Davidson's fixative is somewhat obscure - I have a good bit
of information on it. John Kiernan has said he'll work on ascertaining more
about its history if he ever has the time.

Bob Richmond
Samurai Pathologist
Maryville TN