A Giemsa Stain of Quite Constant Composition and Performance, Made in the Laboratory from Eosin and Methylene Blue

Abstract

The variability among Giemsa stains is due to lack of uniformity in the azure components. Azures of more uniform composition than those procurable commercially were made by the oxidation of methylene blue with specified amts. of K2Cr2O7 in acid soln. with boiling, followed by immediate cooling and neutralization with pre-calculated amts. of NaHCO3. These were promptly precipitated with eosin, filtered and dried. 3 eosinates are thus prepd., and these are ground separately and mixed in a definite proportion for the final stain.