Sorry that I don't have time for a detailed reply.
NBF = neutral buffered formalin
but does not specify what buffer is used to buffer the formalin. It could be phosphate buffer (likely) or acetate. both are buffered at neutral pH. For purposes of light microscopy I don't see that it matters which is used and or whether tissues are exposed to both since formaldehyde is the molecule of interest (from a fixation standpoint) in both solutions.

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
email: Dellav@musc.edu

>>> MELISSA JANS <histomjans@excite.com> 02/23/01 02:35PM >>>
Hello all!
I thought I had sent this message yesterday but it did not go through!
Here is my question/problem:
The histology lab and the surgical suites use NBF.  Surgical pathology
(where the tissue is grossed) uses sodium acetate formalin. Consequently,
some tissue gets completely fixed in NBF while in transit to surgical
pathology (or sitting overnight) while other tissues get completely fixed in
sodium acetate formalin (recieved fresh to surgical pathology).  
Here is my question(s).
What effect does it have on tissue to be transfered from one type of
buffered formalin to another?
Does anyone have any resources for sodium acetate formalin or have
compelling reason why we should not be using it?  I can only find one
reference with mention of sodium acetate formalin (Luna)

Thanks for any info/suggestions/help!!
Melissa Jans BS HT(ASCP)
Lead Scientist
Histology Lab
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics





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