Wright-Giemsa Stain Method

EMS26149

Components:

Wright Giemsa Stain

Phosphate Buffer, pH 6.5

Fixation:

Streak thin (approx. one cell thick) smears across a sterile slide by means of a second slide or cover glass. Air-dry quickly.

Staining Procedure:

1. Place 1.0ml of the Wright-Giemsa Stain upon the smear, in sufficient quantity to cover the entire surface, for 3-4 minutes.
2. Add 2.0ml distilled water or Phosphate Buffer, pH 6.5 and let stand twice as long as in step 1.
3. Rinse stained smear with water or the Phosphate Buffer, pH 6.5 until the edges show faintly pinkish red.
4. The film is allowed to dry in the air. The preparation may be blotted gently to hasten drying.
5. Permanent mounts can be made with mounting medium.

Stain Results:

References:

Lillie, R.D.: Factors influencing the staining of blood films and the role of methylene violet. J. Lab. Clin. Med. 29: 1181, 1944

Lillie, R.D., H.J. Conn’s Biological Stains, 8th edition, William’s & Wilkins, Baltimore, p. 438, 1972.