A reliable method of identifying epithelial casts in the urine is to
recognize the lipid content of the cells. If lipids are absent and the
degenerative processes in the cells are not too advanced, staining of fixed
material may give good identification. In doubtful cases the term 'cellular
casts' or 'casts with cellular inclusions' is used. Epithelial casts always
indicate active or acute renal disorders. They are found in primary and
secondary glomerulonephritis, interstitial nephritis and in acute tubular
necrosis.

Lipid staining as identification by histochemical methods may be of
importance. Oil red O staining in paraffin sections is often observed afer
exposure to organic solvents. All lipid groups react differently by more
their molecular structure. Individual melting point and solubility often
preserve many fatty acids through processing and paraffin embedding. 

Bayliss & Adams refer to Oil red O staining in Bright's diseased kidney
tissue fixed in buffered formalin more than 100 years ago.



Eric C Kellar

-----Original Message-----
From: Jim Ball
To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
Sent: 8/15/99 8:51 PM
Subject: two questions

#1 I have a copy if an AFIP manual that describes an Oil Red O procedure
being performed on a paraffin embedded piece of tissue. Our fearless
leader
would have us use this procedure to demonstate oval fat bodies in a
urine
specimen that has been spun and made into a cell block. A waste of time
or a
brilliant idea you be the experts.
For me it just helps me get through another 8 hour day on my way to
collecting a pay check.

#2 I have lost, misplaced or hidden very well my first check sample from
ASCP of this year. I have not yet contacted ASCP to see if they will
replace
it free of charge of course, but in the event they want would some one
be
willing to fax me a copy so I can maintain my continuing education
credits.
Fax 1-740-633-4568 Att: Jim Ball.

#3 I have forgotten how many credits I need to maintain my IHC
credintials
could some one refresh my tired old memory.

I lied there were three questions.