We have a sudden appearance of "cornflaking", i.e., granular brownish
artifact obscuring cell detail in our cervical pap smears. I expect to find
some modification within the pap stainning technique that is allowing
airdrying during the staining process, but I am wondering, amongst others
who have experienced this artifact, what other causes have been determined.
More importantly, however, is how to get rid of the artifact once it does
appear. I've heard references to a glycerin technique - Could anyone
enlighten me to this or other techniques that work?  Thanks!

Andy Burnette
Section Head Anatomic Pathology
St. Joseph's Hospital, Phoenix AZ
(602) 406-3272