Fading of auramine-stained mycobacterial smears and implications for external quality assurance

J Clin Microbiol. 2011 May;49(5):2024-6. doi: 10.1128/JCM.00507-11. Epub 2011 Mar 23.

Abstract

Light-emitting diode fluorescence microscopy is being scaled up for tuberculosis control, but fading of auramine-stained slides could compromise external quality assurance. We stored auramine-stained slides and reexamined them over time. Slides stored in all environments faded quickly, with significant changes in the proportion of positive slides in as little as 1 week.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacteriological Techniques / methods*
  • Bacteriological Techniques / standards*
  • Benzophenoneidum / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / methods
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / standards
  • Quality Assurance, Health Care
  • Staining and Labeling / methods*
  • Staining and Labeling / standards*

Substances

  • Benzophenoneidum