Dear HistoNet colleagues,

     I am seeking to replace some staining procedures in my laboratory with NON-microwave methods.  Optimally, I am hoping to find stains that are free of heavy metals or any particularly toxic or dangerous components.  I can not use mercury.

     I need to find staining protocols or kits to demonstrate the following:

Fungal organisms
Spirochetes, Campylobacter, and Legionella organisms

     In addition, the gram stain procedure I use is very cumbersome and I would be extremely grateful for a simpler method.
     
     Thank you all very much in advance for your help.

Sincerely,

Kimberly Atkin HT (ASCP)

Boston, Massachusetts