Diana
Try using a very dilute solution (5 drops of 1% erythrosine in 200 ml of
solution). I prefer erythrosine as it seems to give a better stain and
be more resistant to extraction during the later processing stages.
This or eosin are used at the processing stage because of rapid staining
in alcoholic solutions. 
Can add the erythrosine to the fixative if you wish.
Barry


-----Original Message-----
From: Diana McCaig [mailto:dmccaig@ckha.on.ca] 
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2003 8:16 AM
To: HistoNet Server
Subject: Pre staining white biopsies for easy visibility in paraffin
block s

I know this issue was addressed previously but would like some
additional
assistance.  Years back I worked in a lab that colored their biopsies at
the
grossing bench with an eosin solution.  I can not recall the strength or
concentration but for some reason a saturated alcoholic solution sounds
familiar.  I have tried this as well as adding 20 drops of 5% eosin/200
ml
to the first alcohol (75%) on our RMC processor.  But, neither method
colored the biopsies.  I do not want to use mercurichrome or methylene
blue.
I want to use an eosin based solution.  Can anyone provide me with a
recipe
of success.  I would prefer coloring them at the grossing bench rather
than
in the processor but will try anything that will make the biopsies
visible.
I don't like cutting by brail.
Diana McCaig, R.T. 
Charge Tech, Histology
Chatham Kent Health Alliance
519-352-6401 (3347)