Hologic ThinPrep 5000, Operator'S Manual

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S
TAINING AND
C
OVERSLIPPING
10.2
ThinPrep™ 5000 Processor with AutoLoader Operator’s Manual
10
RECOMMENDED STAINING GUIDELINES
Staining times are different for ThinPrep prepared slides in comparison to conventional preparations
and should be adjusted accordingly.
• Use graded concentrations of alcohol (50% or 70%) to lower the potential for osmotic shock
or possible cell shedding during staining.
• The use of mild bluing solutions and dilute acid baths will optimize nuclear staining and
minimize possible cell shedding. Hologic recommends the use of a dilute Lithium Carbonate
solution, or Ammonium Hydroxide solution as the bluing solution.
• Avoid the use of strong salt solutions, like Scotts Tap Water Substitute .
• Bath solution heights should completely cover the slides to reduce the chance of cell
shedding during staining.
• For optimal results, slides should be agitated for at least 10 dips in each bath.
Below are the maximum concentrations to be used for the following solutions during the staining
process:
Hydrochloric acid (HCl) 0.025%
Lithium Carbonate (bluing) baths 10mg per 1 liter
1
Acetic acid 0.1%
Ammonium Hydroxide 0.1%
For Gyn slides intended for use with the ThinPrep Imaging System, consult recommended staining
protocols found in the
ThinPrep Stain User’s Manual .
1. Refer to Bales, CE. and Durfee, GR. Cytologic Techniques in Koss, L, ed. Diagnostic Cytology and its Histopathologic
Basis . 3rd Edition. Philadelphia: JB Lippincott. Vol. II: pp 1187–1260 for details
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