here are a couple more references, but I haven't seen the articles myself

de Kantor IN, Barcat JA, Ritacco V.Related Articles

Viability of mycobacteria in formalin-fixed tissues.
Int J Tuberc Lung Dis. 1999 Apr;3(4):362. No abstract available.
PMID: 10206513 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

2: Gerston KF, Blumberg L, Gafoor H.Related Articles

Viability of mycobacteria in formalin-fixed tissues.
Int J Tuberc Lung Dis. 1998 Jun;2(6):521. No abstract available.
PMID: 9626612 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]



-----Original Message-----
From: Vinnie Della Speranza [mailto:dellav@musc.edu]
Sent: Wednesday, August 28, 2002 11:15 AM
To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
Subject: does TB grow out of formalin fixed tissue?


one of our pathologists indicated to me that she is certain that TB has been
grown from formalin fixed tissue. She also believes this is true for HIV.
This information was offered to contradict a statement I made to a resident
that formalin fixation neutralizes blood borne pathogens.

I'd appreciate hearing from anyone who can speak to this issue ( efficacy of
formalin  to neutralize infectious organisms, especifically on the
infectious potential of TB, HIV and Hep C)  with some authority.

Of course there is always the possibility that tissues had not been
adequately exposed to formalin which permitted some organisms to escape its
effects and then grow in culture, as for example, when large organs are
dropped in formalin without breadloafing.

appreciate your thoughts
Vinnie

Vinnie Della Speranza
Manager for Anatomic Pathology Services
Medical University of South Carolina
165 Ashley Avenue  Suite 309
Charleston, SC 29425
Ph: 843-792-6353
fax: 843-792-8974