[Histonet] Issue with PAS Fungus in Nails

[Pairan, Kelly]

Good afternoon,
We are currently having an issue where our PAS Fungus in our nail specimens are too light more often than not.  The control tissue (which is not nail) is staining just fine. We have not switched the time in sodium hydroxide (no more than 30 minutes) or the concentration (20%).  A subsequent GMS shows organism so we know they should be positive.  The organisms that are within the nail are pale but the ones outside the organism are fine.  We have tested out two different kits with the same results.  Does anyone have any suggestions of how to troubleshoot this? We are using a commercially prepared kit and they were received in June.  The Schiff is kept in the fridge per the directions.  All other kit components are kept at room temperature.

Thanks,
Kelly

Kelly Pairan, HT(ASCP)CM, HQIPCM
Technical Scientist Anatomic Pathology and Cytology
OhioHealth Laboratory Systems
Suite 210 North Medical Building
3535 Olentangy River Rd
Columbus, OH 43214

Email: kelly.pairan at ohiohealth.com<mailto:kelly.pairan at ohiohealth.com>
Work: (614) 566-3575
Cell: (614) 312-0104