We have been experiencing problems with our GMS stain over the past few
weeks.  We run both a control slide containing fungal hyphae, and p. carnii
to cover our bases.  Our problem is: it is taking much longer to stain in
silver, and after we tone, and Na thio the slides, they are so pale (or non
existent), that they are unacceptable.

We have made new: 5% silver, 3% methenamine, 5% borax, stock silver
methenamine, 5% chromic acid, 0.1% gold chloride, and 2% sodium thio.  All
to little avail other than to be able to make them acceptable to sent out,
but not up to our usual standard.

Any help on this very frustrating dilemma would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

Kathy Johnston
Tech II - Special Stains
Anatomic Pathology - Foothills Medical Center
Calgary Laboratory Services
Ph - 403-670-4760
Fax - 403-270-4093
kathy.johnston@cls.ab.ca