What does auramine O stain?

Auramine O can be used to stain acid-fast bacteria (e.g. Mycobacterium, where it binds to the mycolic acid in its cell wall) in a way similar to Ziehl–Neelsen stain. Auramine O can be used together with Rhodamine B as the Truant auramine-rhodamine stain for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

What does positive AFB smear mean?

Positive AFB smears indicate a probable mycobacterial infection. However, a culture must be performed to confirm a diagnosis and identify the species of mycobacteria present.

How do you make auramine stain?

Method

1. Smears are prepared just like that for ZN staining.
2. Stain with Auramine-Phenol for 20 mins.
3. Rinse with water.
4. Decolourise in acid alcohol.
5. Rinse with water.
6. Counterstain with 0.1% potassium permanganate for 30 seconds.
7. Rinse and air dry.

What organisms are AFB positive?

These include:

• Bacterial endospores.
• Head of sperm.
• Cryptosporidium parvum.
• Isospora belli.
• Cyclospora cayetanensis.
• Taenia saginata eggs.
• Hydatid cysts.
• Sarcocystis.

How is Auramine O used as a fluorescent stain?

Auramine O is a hydrochloride obtained by combining 4,4′-carbonimidoylbis (N,N-dimethylaniline) with one molar equivalent of hydrogen chloride. A fluorescent stain for demonstrating acid fast organisms in a method similar to the Ziehl Neelsen. It also can be used to make a fluorescent Schiff reagent.

Is the dye auramine O soluble in water?

Auramine O is a diarylmethane dye used as a fluorescent stain. In its pure form, Auramine O appears as yellow needle crystals. It is not soluble in water. It is soluble in ethanol and DMSO.

How is Auramine O used in acid fast organisms?

A fluorescent stain for demonstrating acid fast organisms in a method similar to the Ziehl Neelsen. It also can be used to make a fluorescent Schiff reagent. It has a role as a fluorochrome and a histological dye.

Which is the best fixation method for Auramine O?

A better fixation method is to allow the slide to remain on an electric slide warmer at 65 to 75ºC for at least 2 h. Allow the slide to cool prior to staining. III. MATERIALS A. Reagents: Reagents may be purchased commercially or prepared in the laboratory. a. Fluorochrome acid -fast stain i. Auramine O ii. 0.5% Acid -alcohol iii.