THE PERIODIC-ACID-SCHIFF STAIN FOR THE DEMONSTRATION OF FUNGI IN ANIMAL TISSUE

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Abstract
The Hotchkiss-McManus stain was used for the identification and observation of fungi both in superficial and deep animal infections. The periodic acid hydrolyzes certain components of the chitin-cellulose complex of the fungus wall and this recolorizes Schiff reagent. Inflammatory cells do not ordinarily stain by this method whereas fungi stain a bright red and are therefore easily identifiable. Tissues were fixed in formalin or Rossman''s fixative, and stained according to the method of McManus. Skin scrapings and sputum containing fungi were also studied satisfactorily. The fungi stain much more brilliantly and with greater detail than by staining methods previously used. A greater variety of cellular forms of fungi in animal tissues have been noted than had heretofore been described. The diagnostic value of the procedure is emphasized.
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