RE: [Histonet] HTL
Do you want the blunt truth? There's a perception, even within the other disciplines in Diagnostic Labs, that BMS's in Histology (HistoTechs) are second rate Scientists. I know that's an inflammatory remark but I've battled with it for years. Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Ots, Audiologists and Speech Language Therapists run Clinics treat Patients and are 'clinical'. The perception is that 'scientists' are not clinical and before we get appreciated for that we probably need to run Clinics ourselves but how do Histotechs/ BMS's achieve that? In the UK scientific staff are slowly doing that with Anticoagulant Clinics, with advanced dissection and the reporting of cervical smears after achieving the appropriate level of qualification. I'm hoping one day that the 'glass ceiling' will be taken off the Path Labs and that a scientist will, after obtaining his/ her degree, Masters (or PhD), like the Clinical Scientists, obtain the MRCPath and then clinically lead a discipline. Only when we step from behind the skirts of the Medics will the sun shine on us. Does that help? Kemlo Rogerson MSc MIBiol CBiol DMS CSci FIBMS (I tried). -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Shea's Sent: 15 July 2009 04:13 To: jaustin1...@gmail.com Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] HTL Michael, Ditto, very well stated. I too believe that our industry is under appreciated. Many new grads of today find a two year degree demeaning and wouldn't consider HT because of it. I don't understand how some professions like pharmacy physical therapy gain respect and grow to create 5 yr, 6yr 7yr programs. They are very well respected by the MDs and Hospital administration and have nice salaries to show for it. Why hasn't our field flourished? Jan, BS, HTL ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] What percent of HTL's do not have a BS degree?
The histology world doesn't look for well qualified workers they look for cheap labor (SIC). I have heard more than one pathologist state that a monkey can do our job. See my other post. The retort ought to be that a Histology BMS/ Histotech can do yours!! A honest Pathologist once told me that a good Histotech could report 80% of what he did, you needed some medical knowledge to maybe report the next 15% or so, Pathologists with a speciality probably reported the next 2% or 3% and it took an expert to deal with the top few percent. He taught me Pathology of the skin and I was good at it; I naturally then became a Cytologist as there's no way, without a MRCPath, that I could ever report skin biopsies. A Gynaecologist friend of mine once told that the Pathologist/ Histotech (BMS) relationship was perceived by many of his colleagues to be the last bastion of prostitution. I never figured out who was the pimp!! -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Michael Bradley Sent: 14 July 2009 21:50 To: Weems, Joyce Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] What percent of HTL's do not have a BS degree? HI all I am a rarity. I am an HTL with a Bachelors Degree. I got my HTL in the early 90s and I guess I was misguided because I thought it would open more doors for me than just an HT. I was sadly mistaken. After I passed my test I waited 9 months for a raise and promotion (which was just a greater title) and when I got my raise so did 2 other employees that didn't even have or try for their certification. I spent many nights and weekends studying and doing my stains for the test. I am proud of my accomplishments. It is a shame that our industry does not reconize the difference between HT and HTL. A few years back I was working as a traveling histotech and when I tried to get a permanent position no one wanted to hire me because I was over qualified by having over 15 years experience and a HTL certification. I worked hard to no avail. The histology world doesn't look for well qualified workers they look for cheap labor. I have heard more than one pathologist state that a monkey can do our job. I have also worked in a lab where they would hire someone with a GED to cut slides. A career in histology is for the most part a dead end and there is no future. As long as our industry doesn't respect education and experience there will be less and less histotechs and the quality of the slides will suffer which in turn will bring down patient care. Just my 2 cents. MB proud HTL On Tue, Jul 14, 2009 at 3:37 PM, Weems, Joyce jwe...@sjha.org wrote: Honey... You are a mere child! There are some of us that have been in the business for 40+ years. I missed the grandfather approach by 7 mo - time that I didn't work moving from place to place with my military ex-husband. But I did finally get the degree and do the exam. But we're still around. And I'll probably be working till I'm 100!!! J:) -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thomas Jasper Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 15:16 To: Feher, Stephen Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] What percent of HTL's do not have a BS degree? Hi Steve, I've got no statistics to offer you...just an observation. I would say that finding an HTL, without a Bachelor's degree is akin to the proverbial needle in a haystack. Anyone that obtained their HTL, if/when they could be grandfathered in, is likely to be retired or close to it. First of all, most folks that went the OJT route for certification were eligible to sit for the HT only (to my knowledge). I've never met anyone with an HTL that did not have a Bachelor's as a pre-requisite. I've been doing histology for ~25 years. I've met people from all over the country and various parts of the world. Truth is there isn't an abundance of HTLs out there. Unlike the Medical Lab world, with the basic differences between MTs and MLTs, anatomic path does not exactly mirror that with the HTL and HT. It's true the MT and HTL both require a Bachelor's, but responsibilities in most labs, etc., generally do not hinge on someone being an HT vs. an HTL. A person like myself is probably more common (Bachelor's and an HT). Unless you know of someone in particular; that you want to hire, with an HTL without a Bachelor's, I wouldn't waste time trying to justify it. I guess the bottom line is if you want an HTL, that person will almost assuredly have a Bachelor's. If you want to hire someone without a Bachelor's that is certified (HT) you'll have better luck. I think having an HTL is a great thing. I honestly have never pursued it (though eligible) as the circumstances of my career would not have rewarded me for doing so. As
[Histonet] Re: RE: human vimentin IHC
I agree with Jason: have a look in image gallery here http://www.immunoportal.com/ for an image of HES cells in mouse tissue, using V9 clone. No personal experience with Human specific SMA but plenty of images ( ASMA) in IP gallery Carl Hobbs Histology Manager Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases King's College London Tel.020 7848 6810 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] HTL
well said!! your statement: 'Only when we step from behind the skirts of the Medics will the sun shine on us' deserves dissection (pardon the pun) are we volutarily 'behind the medics or are we conveniently 'kept' there by those same medics medics=pathologists (some exceptions) where i come from most of these 'medics' are running the (very lucrative) private labs and the techs are kept 'lean and hungry' - they are 'worker bees'' grateful for work and paid a pittance. i once voiced my desire to take unpaid leave in order to study further and was refused time off for this, on the basis that i would then cost more to employ!!! i have a 4 year diploma (now called a BTech degree) - i am licensed as a Medical Technologist with Cell Path Speciality. i am neither an HT or an HTL. i have 30 years experience and have been supervising/managing AP labs for over 15 years but because i dont have a degree i would most likely have a hard time finding employment in the USA or Canada - your loss guys. its not what you call it its how you apply what you know - having a degree does not make you a good tech. flame away!! AnnieinArabia (out of Africa) 2009/7/15 Kemlo Rogerson kemlo.roger...@waht.swest.nhs.uk Do you want the blunt truth? There's a perception, even within the other disciplines in Diagnostic Labs, that BMS's in Histology (HistoTechs) are second rate Scientists. I know that's an inflammatory remark but I've battled with it for years. Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Ots, Audiologists and Speech Language Therapists run Clinics treat Patients and are 'clinical'. The perception is that 'scientists' are not clinical and before we get appreciated for that we probably need to run Clinics ourselves but how do Histotechs/ BMS's achieve that? In the UK scientific staff are slowly doing that with Anticoagulant Clinics, with advanced dissection and the reporting of cervical smears after achieving the appropriate level of qualification. I'm hoping one day that the 'glass ceiling' will be taken off the Path Labs and that a scientist will, after obtaining his/ her degree, Masters (or PhD), like the Clinical Scientists, obtain the MRCPath and then clinically lead a discipline. Only when we step from behind the skirts of the Medics will the sun shine on us. Does that help? Kemlo Rogerson MSc MIBiol CBiol DMS CSci FIBMS (I tried). -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Shea's Sent: 15 July 2009 04:13 To: jaustin1...@gmail.com Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] HTL Michael, Ditto, very well stated. I too believe that our industry is under appreciated. Many new grads of today find a two year degree demeaning and wouldn't consider HT because of it. I don't understand how some professions like pharmacy physical therapy gain respect and grow to create 5 yr, 6yr 7yr programs. They are very well respected by the MDs and Hospital administration and have nice salaries to show for it. Why hasn't our field flourished? Jan, BS, HTL ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet -- Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) Abu Dhabi UAE ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] HTL
Anne I think most techs I know are in the voluntary category you speak of. Most are happy being microtome monkeys and never exploring the other possibilities in the field. Nothing wrong with that if that's what you want to do. Although there are many things you can do with - like anne said- applying what you know. As far as pathologists keeping you back -i think its just like any other business. The boss will always look to keep more money and will pay his workers the lowest he can. That's when you take your experience elsewhere, or simply stay somewhere for a while to learn and beef up that resume. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry -Original Message- From: Anne van Binsbergen anni...@gmail.com Date: Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:01:24 To: Kemlo Rogersonkemlo.roger...@waht.swest.nhs.uk Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Shea'sjshea...@roadrunner.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] HTL well said!! your statement: 'Only when we step from behind the skirts of the Medics will the sun shine on us' deserves dissection (pardon the pun) are we volutarily 'behind the medics or are we conveniently 'kept' there by those same medics medics=pathologists (some exceptions) where i come from most of these 'medics' are running the (very lucrative) private labs and the techs are kept 'lean and hungry' - they are 'worker bees'' grateful for work and paid a pittance. i once voiced my desire to take unpaid leave in order to study further and was refused time off for this, on the basis that i would then cost more to employ!!! i have a 4 year diploma (now called a BTech degree) - i am licensed as a Medical Technologist with Cell Path Speciality. i am neither an HT or an HTL. i have 30 years experience and have been supervising/managing AP labs for over 15 years but because i dont have a degree i would most likely have a hard time finding employment in the USA or Canada - your loss guys. its not what you call it its how you apply what you know - having a degree does not make you a good tech. flame away!! AnnieinArabia (out of Africa) 2009/7/15 Kemlo Rogerson kemlo.roger...@waht.swest.nhs.uk Do you want the blunt truth? There's a perception, even within the other disciplines in Diagnostic Labs, that BMS's in Histology (HistoTechs) are second rate Scientists. I know that's an inflammatory remark but I've battled with it for years. Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Ots, Audiologists and Speech Language Therapists run Clinics treat Patients and are 'clinical'. The perception is that 'scientists' are not clinical and before we get appreciated for that we probably need to run Clinics ourselves but how do Histotechs/ BMS's achieve that? In the UK scientific staff are slowly doing that with Anticoagulant Clinics, with advanced dissection and the reporting of cervical smears after achieving the appropriate level of qualification. I'm hoping one day that the 'glass ceiling' will be taken off the Path Labs and that a scientist will, after obtaining his/ her degree, Masters (or PhD), like the Clinical Scientists, obtain the MRCPath and then clinically lead a discipline. Only when we step from behind the skirts of the Medics will the sun shine on us. Does that help? Kemlo Rogerson MSc MIBiol CBiol DMS CSci FIBMS (I tried). -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Shea's Sent: 15 July 2009 04:13 To: jaustin1...@gmail.com Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] HTL Michael, Ditto, very well stated. I too believe that our industry is under appreciated. Many new grads of today find a two year degree demeaning and wouldn't consider HT because of it. I don't understand how some professions like pharmacy physical therapy gain respect and grow to create 5 yr, 6yr 7yr programs. They are very well respected by the MDs and Hospital administration and have nice salaries to show for it. Why hasn't our field flourished? Jan, BS, HTL ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet -- Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) Abu Dhabi UAE ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Re: formalin substitutes - tissue structure
Yak-Nam Wang at the University of Washington (in the state of Washington USA) asks: We have been obtaining formalin fixed human skin and fat samples from several companies. We use stereological methods to make tissue measurements such as dermal thickness and adipose cell size from sections stained with a variety of basic stains. However, there is now another company that we would like to do obtain more tissue from but they can only provide tissue fixed with a formalin alternative such as FineFix or Prefer. Measurement data collected from formalin and formalin alternative fixed tissue would be used together if we obtained tissue from this other company. Depends on whether you're doing science or not. Prefer is Anatech's glyoxal-based fixative, and they can probably offer you some guidance. Glyoxal is an aldehyde fixative. It may well be interchangeable for this purpose. FineFix is a secret formula by a company I never heard of, with a dysfunctional Web site. The fixative appears to be ethanol, which however is added by the user and is not in the formula. I couldn't find an MSDS. The limited information available suggests that this process may depend on microwave fixation. John Kiernan on this list has expressed many times, much more eloquently than I can, his opinion of doing science with secret ingredients. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] HTL
Some volunteer to stay 'behind the medics' as it is safe; some are kept there kicking and screaming (I'm hoarse). Medics are medics; it is a 'gentlemen's club' but non-Path medics are finding their position eroded by the Consultant Nurse and Consultant Physiotherapist. Pathologists are strenously opposing the idea of a Consultant Biomedical Scientist but bizzarely the Consultant Clinical Scientist is seen as OK. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Anne van Binsbergen Sent: 15 July 2009 09:01 To: Kemlo Rogerson Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Shea's Subject: Re: [Histonet] HTL well said!! your statement: 'Only when we step from behind the skirts of the Medics will the sun shine on us' deserves dissection (pardon the pun) are we volutarily 'behind the medics or are we conveniently 'kept' there by those same medics medics=pathologists (some exceptions) where i come from most of these 'medics' are running the (very lucrative) private labs and the techs are kept 'lean and hungry' - they are 'worker bees'' grateful for work and paid a pittance. i once voiced my desire to take unpaid leave in order to study further and was refused time off for this, on the basis that i would then cost more to employ!!! i have a 4 year diploma (now called a BTech degree) - i am licensed as a Medical Technologist with Cell Path Speciality. i am neither an HT or an HTL. i have 30 years experience and have been supervising/managing AP labs for over 15 years but because i dont have a degree i would most likely have a hard time finding employment in the USA or Canada - your loss guys. its not what you call it its how you apply what you know - having a degree does not make you a good tech. flame away!! AnnieinArabia (out of Africa) 2009/7/15 Kemlo Rogerson kemlo.roger...@waht.swest.nhs.uk Do you want the blunt truth? There's a perception, even within the other disciplines in Diagnostic Labs, that BMS's in Histology (HistoTechs) are second rate Scientists. I know that's an inflammatory remark but I've battled with it for years. Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Ots, Audiologists and Speech Language Therapists run Clinics treat Patients and are 'clinical'. The perception is that 'scientists' are not clinical and before we get appreciated for that we probably need to run Clinics ourselves but how do Histotechs/ BMS's achieve that? In the UK scientific staff are slowly doing that with Anticoagulant Clinics, with advanced dissection and the reporting of cervical smears after achieving the appropriate level of qualification. I'm hoping one day that the 'glass ceiling' will be taken off the Path Labs and that a scientist will, after obtaining his/ her degree, Masters (or PhD), like the Clinical Scientists, obtain the MRCPath and then clinically lead a discipline. Only when we step from behind the skirts of the Medics will the sun shine on us. Does that help? Kemlo Rogerson MSc MIBiol CBiol DMS CSci FIBMS (I tried). -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Shea's Sent: 15 July 2009 04:13 To: jaustin1...@gmail.com Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] HTL Michael, Ditto, very well stated. I too believe that our industry is under appreciated. Many new grads of today find a two year degree demeaning and wouldn't consider HT because of it. I don't understand how some professions like pharmacy physical therapy gain respect and grow to create 5 yr, 6yr 7yr programs. They are very well respected by the MDs and Hospital administration and have nice salaries to show for it. Why hasn't our field flourished? Jan, BS, HTL ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet -- Anne van Binsbergen (Hope) Abu Dhabi UAE ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Eosin in Alcohol
News to me We have used this for many years and have never had a problem with IHC ourselves or heard of anyone else having issues. Tom McNemar, HT(ASCP) Histology Co-ordinator Licking Memorial Health Systems (740) 348-4163 (740) 348-4166 tmcne...@lmhealth.org www.LMHealth.org -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu]on Behalf Of Harrison, Sandra C. Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 5:15 PM To: Jennifer Johnson; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Eosin in Alcohol polycyclic aromatic flourescent compounds that in high concentrations I wouldn't think the 3 mls of eosin dropped in the last 95% alcohol could be considered high concentration but that's what keeps Histonet entertaining; I learn something new every day. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jennifer Johnson Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 10:00 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Eosin in Alcohol A couple of weeks ago I posted the message below on the histonet and all of you responded that it shouldn't matter so I have finally gotten a reply from the company we send our prostate biopsies off to and below is their response. So now you know the rest of the story! We have used Eosin in the last 95% alcohol on the tissue processor for several years. I usually add approximately 5 ml to the full jug. It is a great tool to use for embedding. However, we received a letter from the lab that we send our prostate biopsies to saying that it was undesirable because it interfered with their immuno staining. They sent us some cobalt blue to use in the place of eosin along with mixing instructions and the whole batch of tissues came out such a dark blue. There is no delineations in the color of the blue and I found it to be useless for helping to embed. I would rather do without anything than use cobalt blue. I guess the point of my rambling is, Eosin is a wonderful tool to use unless you are doing immunos on prostate biopsies. Thanks, Jennifer Johnson, HTL (ASCP) Their reply: The problem is that eosin belongs to a family of polycyclic aromatic flourescent compounds that in high concentrations binds to and saturates all tissue components. When immunoflourescence is performed on such tissue- as in the prostate px+ test- the diffuse background autoflourescence signal from prior treatment with these compounds can interfere with, and even totally overwhelm, the signal of the flourescent-labeled antibodies used to localize biomarkers in the tissue. _ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that's right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290__ _ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Frozen control
I am resubmitting my question concerning the use of a control for the frozen section staining. Does anyone run a control and, if so, how often and do you store them in the freezer? This was a suggestion we received, but, not certain if we need or want to go this route. Any input would be greatly appreciated and thanks so much! Dorothy Webb, HT Regions Histology Technical Supervisor 651-254-2962 This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. HealthPartners R001.0 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] RE: human vimentin IHC
Just a comment from the veterinary world... in my validation tests of Vimentin (clone V9 by Dako), I found that xVimentin DOES cross-react with dog, cat, pig, cow, horse, donkey, goat, sheep, deer, chicken, rabbit, frog (weakly), and primate. Dako's data from the past stated that V9 Vimentin did cross-react with hamster and rat, but NOT with mouse. I have not tried it myself on these last three animals. So, if Dako's data is accurate, and as long as you're only working with mouse tissue as your host stromal tissue, you should be OK in using Vimentin, at least Dako's V9 Vimentin. But be sure to do your own validation on the separate species first to prove that your antibody does not bind to mouse tissue, before proceeding with the whole project. I also use heat retrieval (pressure cooker) in Dako Target Retrieval Solution for Vimentin antigen unmasking. Citrate buffer for antigen retrieval also works fine. Jan Shivers Univ. of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory St. Paul, MN - Original Message - From: PALMER Jason (SVHM) jason.pal...@svhm.org.au To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 9:33 PM Subject: [Histonet] RE: human vimentin IHC Igor. A few years back I used Dako V9 mouse anti human vimentin to label human grafts in a mouse background. Tested it first on several mouse tissues and got no reactivity, compared to very strong reactivity in a variety of cell types in human tissue, and so am sure that it is human specific cf mouse. I used the Dako ARK to get around the mouse-on-mouse background issues and was happy with the staining obtained (although not quite as sensitive perhaps as a standard, LSAB method). I am actually about to try this again myself very soon. I used citrate AR and primary at 1:800 for my staining. Cheers, Jason Palmer Histology Laboratory Coordinator Bernard O'Brien Institute 42 Fitzroy St, Fitzroy Victoria 3065 Australia tel +61 3 9288 4018 fax +61 3 9416 0926 email: jason.pal...@svhm.org.au -- Message: 4 Date: Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:03:47 -0400 From: Igor Deyneko igor.deyn...@gmail.com Subject: [Histonet] Human VIMENTIN and SMA IHC To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: 35e16a770907141203h14ccc18bt2e3123d11c478...@mail.gmail.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Dear Histonetters! I am wondering if anyone can possibly advise good antibodies for HUMAN anti alpha SMA and Vimentin. I'm working with xenografts, human tumors with mouse stroma and in the past had a lot of cross reactivity and background issues. Does anyone know good antibodies or a clone, or has a good protocol for either??? All would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Igor Deyneko Infinity Pharmaceuticals Cambridge, MA Disclaimer : The contents of this e-mail including any attachments are intended only for the person or entity to which this e-mail is addressed and may contain confidential, privileged and/or commercially sensitive material. If you are not, or believe you may not be, the intended recipient, please advise the sender immediately by return e-mail, delete this e-mail and destroy any copies. __ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email __ ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] RE: BS with HTL
I have a BA in Biology with my HT. The program that I went through refused to allow me to take the HTL because they were new and did not want their perfect pass rate stat messed with. That's ok I plan to take the HTL at some point in time soon.. Happy Wednesday, Laurie Laurie Popp, BA HT(ASCP) TACMA Shared resources Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] What percent of HTL's do not have a BS degree?
Kemlo, You may not know who the pimp is, but you know who got screwed. Victor Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 vic...@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax = Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Kemlo Rogerson wrote: The histology world doesn't look for well qualified workers they look for cheap labor (SIC). I have heard more than one pathologist state that a monkey can do our job. See my other post. The retort ought to be that a Histology BMS/ Histotech can do yours!! A honest Pathologist once told me that a good Histotech could report 80% of what he did, you needed some medical knowledge to maybe report the next 15% or so, Pathologists with a speciality probably reported the next 2% or 3% and it took an expert to deal with the top few percent. He taught me Pathology of the skin and I was good at it; I naturally then became a Cytologist as there's no way, without a MRCPath, that I could ever report skin biopsies. A Gynaecologist friend of mine once told that the Pathologist/ Histotech (BMS) relationship was perceived by many of his colleagues to be the last bastion of prostitution. I never figured out who was the pimp!! -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Michael Bradley Sent: 14 July 2009 21:50 To: Weems, Joyce Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] What percent of HTL's do not have a BS degree? HI all I am a rarity. I am an HTL with a Bachelors Degree. I got my HTL in the early 90s and I guess I was misguided because I thought it would open more doors for me than just an HT. I was sadly mistaken. After I passed my test I waited 9 months for a raise and promotion (which was just a greater title) and when I got my raise so did 2 other employees that didn't even have or try for their certification. I spent many nights and weekends studying and doing my stains for the test. I am proud of my accomplishments. It is a shame that our industry does not reconize the difference between HT and HTL. A few years back I was working as a traveling histotech and when I tried to get a permanent position no one wanted to hire me because I was over qualified by having over 15 years experience and a HTL certification. I worked hard to no avail. The histology world doesn't look for well qualified workers they look for cheap labor. I have heard more than one pathologist state that a monkey can do our job. I have also worked in a lab where they would hire someone with a GED to cut slides. A career in histology is for the most part a dead end and there is no future. As long as our industry doesn't respect education and experience there will be less and less histotechs and the quality of the slides will suffer which in turn will bring down patient care. Just my 2 cents. MB proud HTL On Tue, Jul 14, 2009 at 3:37 PM, Weems, Joyce jwe...@sjha.org wrote: Honey... You are a mere child! There are some of us that have been in the business for 40+ years. I missed the grandfather approach by 7 mo - time that I didn't work moving from place to place with my military ex-husband. But I did finally get the degree and do the exam. But we're still around. And I'll probably be working till I'm 100!!! J:) -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Thomas Jasper Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 15:16 To: Feher, Stephen Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] What percent of HTL's do not have a BS degree? Hi Steve, I've got no statistics to offer you...just an observation. I would say that finding an HTL, without a Bachelor's degree is akin to the proverbial needle in a haystack. Anyone that obtained their HTL, if/when they could be grandfathered in, is likely to be retired or close to it. First of all, most folks that went the OJT route for certification were eligible to sit for the HT only (to my knowledge). I've never met anyone with an HTL that did not have a Bachelor's as a pre-requisite. I've been doing histology for ~25 years. I've met people from all over the country and various parts of the world. Truth is there isn't an abundance of HTLs out there. Unlike the Medical Lab world, with the basic differences between MTs and MLTs,
RE: [Histonet] Frozen control
We do not run a control, nor have I ever at any of my previous jobs. Laurie Colbert -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Webb, Dorothy L Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2009 7:13 AM To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' Subject: [Histonet] Frozen control I am resubmitting my question concerning the use of a control for the frozen section staining. Does anyone run a control and, if so, how often and do you store them in the freezer? This was a suggestion we received, but, not certain if we need or want to go this route. Any input would be greatly appreciated and thanks so much! Dorothy Webb, HT Regions Histology Technical Supervisor 651-254-2962 This e-mail and any files transmitted with it are confidential and are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or the individual responsible for delivering the e-mail to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this e-mail in error and that any use, dissemination, forwarding, printing, or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the HealthPartners Support Center by telephone at (952) 967-6600. You will be reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred in notifying us. HealthPartners R001.0 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] RE: human vimentin IHC
In my experience V9 definitely cross reacts with mouse. -Original Message- From: Jan Shivers shive...@umn.edu Date: Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:18:00 To: histonethistonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; PALMER Jason (SVHM)jason.pal...@svhm.org.au Subject: Re: [Histonet] RE: human vimentin IHC Just a comment from the veterinary world... in my validation tests of Vimentin (clone V9 by Dako), I found that xVimentin DOES cross-react with dog, cat, pig, cow, horse, donkey, goat, sheep, deer, chicken, rabbit, frog (weakly), and primate. Dako's data from the past stated that V9 Vimentin did cross-react with hamster and rat, but NOT with mouse. I have not tried it myself on these last three animals. So, if Dako's data is accurate, and as long as you're only working with mouse tissue as your host stromal tissue, you should be OK in using Vimentin, at least Dako's V9 Vimentin. But be sure to do your own validation on the separate species first to prove that your antibody does not bind to mouse tissue, before proceeding with the whole project. I also use heat retrieval (pressure cooker) in Dako Target Retrieval Solution for Vimentin antigen unmasking. Citrate buffer for antigen retrieval also works fine. Jan Shivers Univ. of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory St. Paul, MN - Original Message - From: PALMER Jason (SVHM) jason.pal...@svhm.org.au To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 9:33 PM Subject: [Histonet] RE: human vimentin IHC Igor. A few years back I used Dako V9 mouse anti human vimentin to label human grafts in a mouse background. Tested it first on several mouse tissues and got no reactivity, compared to very strong reactivity in a variety of cell types in human tissue, and so am sure that it is human specific cf mouse. I used the Dako ARK to get around the mouse-on-mouse background issues and was happy with the staining obtained (although not quite as sensitive perhaps as a standard, LSAB method). I am actually about to try this again myself very soon. I used citrate AR and primary at 1:800 for my staining. Cheers, Jason Palmer Histology Laboratory Coordinator Bernard O'Brien Institute 42 Fitzroy St, Fitzroy Victoria 3065 Australia tel +61 3 9288 4018 fax +61 3 9416 0926 email: jason.pal...@svhm.org.au -- Message: 4 Date: Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:03:47 -0400 From: Igor Deyneko igor.deyn...@gmail.com Subject: [Histonet] Human VIMENTIN and SMA IHC To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: 35e16a770907141203h14ccc18bt2e3123d11c478...@mail.gmail.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Dear Histonetters! I am wondering if anyone can possibly advise good antibodies for HUMAN anti alpha SMA and Vimentin. I'm working with xenografts, human tumors with mouse stroma and in the past had a lot of cross reactivity and background issues. Does anyone know good antibodies or a clone, or has a good protocol for either??? All would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Igor Deyneko Infinity Pharmaceuticals Cambridge, MA Disclaimer : The contents of this e-mail including any attachments are intended only for the person or entity to which this e-mail is addressed and may contain confidential, privileged and/or commercially sensitive material. If you are not, or believe you may not be, the intended recipient, please advise the sender immediately by return e-mail, delete this e-mail and destroy any copies. __ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email __ ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Frozen Control
Dorothy, We routinely ran frozen controls with our Oil Red O etc. when I was over in the clinical area. We cut the controls ourselves and only kept a 25 ct slide box in the freezer so when they were gone we cut more. That way you don't end up with old controls. Laurie Laurie Popp, BA HT(ASCP) TACMA Shared Resources, Mayo Clinic-Rochester ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Do not assume you would not get hired without an ASCP
Depending on where you want to work, to say you would likely not get hired without an ASCP certification is just not true. If you look at most CRO's, reference labs, pharmaceutical, biotechs, start ups and even the occasional hospital you will find thousands of folks who are working as high level managers without an ASCP certification. Why are we back on this topic again? Lee Luna who I knew personally as many of you did most of his work well before he ever sat for the HT, and he was the top histologist at AFIP, not to mention a pioneer in the field. I just think we Americans should be given more credit that we would and do in fact hire experienced people and hold experience in higher regard than the certification. Deep down we all know that is true. Nick Madary, HT/HTL(ASCP)QIHC Histology Mgr, Medimmune 301.398.6360(lab), 4745(vm),9745(fax) To the extent this electronic communication or any of its attachments contain information that is not in the public domain, such information is considered by MedImmune to be confidential and proprietary, and expected to be used only by the individual(s) for whom it is intended. If you have received this electronic communication in error, please reply to the sender advising of the error in transmission and delete the original message and any accompanying documents from your system immediately, without copying, reviewing or otherwise using them for any purpose. Thank you for your cooperation. To the extent this electronic communication or any of its attachments contain information that is not in the public domain, such information is considered by MedImmune to be confidential and proprietary. This communication is expected to be read and/or used only by the individual(s) for whom it is intended. If you have received this electronic communication in error, please reply to the sender advising of the error in transmission and delete the original message and any accompanying documents from your system immediately, without copying, reviewing or otherwise using them for any purpose. Thank you for your cooperation. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Re: HTL
I've been reading the e-mails for a couple of days, and decided to put in an unbiased observation. Unbiased, because I am not a Histotech. I have worked at the same hospital for 19 years and been Manager of the Pathology department for 7 years. We have HT's , HTL's, some certified, some not, some with degrees, and some trained on the job. I have that needle in the haystack of a HTL without a 4 year degree. She is one of my most skilled techs, I also have a tech that was trained on the job (started as a transcriptionist for Pathology) who took the HT registry before the college requirement, and she is also a great tech. Personally, I don't think it is the degree that makes a good tech, but having education that directly relates to Histology. Here in Virginia, we do not have programs that offer training for Histotechs any longer, and it is needed. We are a busy hospital lab, and unfortunately don't have the time to mentor our techs properly. Many have a degree, but not formal Histology training and therefore have greater challenges preparing for the exam. I have a degree in Biology, and I am certified in Cytology, but that does not make me any type of Histotech. It is a unique field and skill that you all posess and you all should be proud, and stop the discussion of which is better. Beth A. Fye, CT (ASCP) ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] re: ViAS
Anyone out there using VIAS for Quantitative Analysis of ER/PR? Please email me direct as I have a few questions. Thanks you! Heather D. Renko, Histology Supervisor OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Main Laboratory-Histology 5666 East State Street Rockford, Illinois 61108 815-395-5410 Direct 815-395-5116 Department == The information in this message is confidential and may be legally privileged. Access to this message by anyone other than the addressee is not authorized. If you are not the intended recipient, or an agent of the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, or distribution of the message or any action or omission taken by you in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender immediately and permanently delete the original e-mail, attachment(s), and any copies. == ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Re: Frozen control
Well, I've done frozen sections in a lot of hospitals, and I don't think I've ever seen a control slide stained, nor do I see the slightest technical or medical reason to do it. This is a purely a regulatory issue, I think - something to hire another paper--pusher to keep up with. Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] nuclear bubbling
Has anyone experienced nuclear bubbling on prostate biopsies? Joyce * CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE * This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. Please notify the sender immediately by e-mail if you have received this e-mail by mistake and delete this e-mail from your system. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] nuclear bubbling
Anybody can experience nuclear bubbling in any type tissue as long as the sections as set to dry at high temperature BEFORE they are completely drained off! René J. --- On Wed, 7/15/09, Joyce Cline jcl...@wchsys.org wrote: From: Joyce Cline jcl...@wchsys.org Subject: [Histonet] nuclear bubbling To: Histonet histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2009, 3:45 PM Has anyone experienced nuclear bubbling on prostate biopsies? Joyce * CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE * This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. Please notify the sender immediately by e-mail if you have received this e-mail by mistake and delete this e-mail from your system. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] aspiring histotech
Hello histology world! I have been working in a histology lab doing mostly IHC for over a year now and I am interested in taking the HT or HTL exam. I have a B.S. in biology so I can sit for either exam. I was wondering about the pro's and con's of each and any study material that would best help me. Thank you all for the info and this site is a great source of info and inspiration for my chosen career! Anthony _ Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail®. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Hi.
Hi. Hearing all these comments about histology is really depressing. I was hoping by getting my BS and upgrading my ASCP certification I would at least get, what I consider, a more interesting job. My BS will be veterinary technology, similar to a registered nurse with a bachelors but for animals. I was hoping I could work in Research or immunos, in a vet school, or university setting. Does anyone have any advice? By the way please post them to the board and not to my email address. Thanks! Carrie ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] 2 items.. to post
Histonetter's: #1- What are your thoughts on the many new sites for Histology assistantsthey come very close to sounding like Histotechnicianswhich they are not. I am not 100% on allowing another category for assistants...but , would like a true differentiation between assistant, technician and technologistif it must besince there most decidedly are differences. technicians out there...do you want to go back to being your pathologist's assistant? Or, are you a professional, with a title of your own, you earned! In this time when we are just begining to come from the shadows and emerg as professionals...I believe assistants take us back not forward in being professionally recognized. I think the development of these programs are just a quickie way for pathologists to fill the vast lost of skilled and qualified histologists that are retiring and a way to keep wages repressed...That assistant subset, will wish they had not taken that route father down the road. We should encourage people to enter the excellent programs we have and continue to work for higher education goals with better programs.What are your thoughts. Would you want to be a histology assistant? You know where that will take us. It is merely a short-term fix for a problem that needs more than a band-aid... #2 It recently came to my attention that AFIP will close on Oct 1. Did anyone ask you, who use AFIP if that was a good idea, or explain why they think it is? Who thinks what out there?I think my letter to the President is not enough? But, yours and mine might have some impact on that What do you think? It is another way to be your own best advocate for your field. Have a voice...either way...at least it is your voice. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] experienced traveler needed for ONE WEEK
Hi Guys- We have an opening for experienced traveler for one week assignment, next week, day shift and most of our regulars are on other assignments. Embed and cut to facility protocols. Resumes may be submitted privately to: ad...@fullstaff.org Cheryl Cheryl R. Kerry, Principal, HT(ASCP) Full Staff Inc. Staffing Healthcare Professionals - One GREAT fit at a time! 281.852.9457 800.756.3309 eFax ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] aspiring histotech
I am interested in knowing this also please!! Loralei On Wed, Jul 15, 2009 at 1:35 PM, Anthony Sandoval sandoval.1...@hotmail.com wrote: Hello histology world! I have been working in a histology lab doing mostly IHC for over a year now and I am interested in taking the HT or HTL exam. I have a B.S. in biology so I can sit for either exam. I was wondering about the pro's and con's of each and any study material that would best help me. Thank you all for the info and this site is a great source of info and inspiration for my chosen career! Anthony _ Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail®. http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
