Perhaps this could be a short cut, versus checking the literature at this stage. Is there anyone out there who has actually described a new species of Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon or Plasmodium partly or entirely on the basis of a Hemacolor-stained blood smear(s)? I am seeking an expert opinion(s). The reason for asking is that there are some smears (I have not yet seen them) which have been stained with Hemacolor. Are Hemacolor-stained blood smears from birds suitable for detailed morphological, taxonomically related work? In systematic studies, are Hemacolor-stained avian hematozoa comparable with Giemsa-stained reference material? This question is not about the merits or otherwise of molecular versus parasitological criteria. It is only and specifically about Hemacolor stain, with which I am not familiar in the context concerned. Any comment(s)?
Hi Miles, here in Brazil we have a similar stain kit, called panotico, which seems to work just like the same as hemacolor. For avian and reptile blodd smears they can work, but we loose in quality when using it for morphological characterization os parasites. I prefer using Giemsa and Rosenfeld. Other thing, smears stained wth panotico can't be conserved for long periods as Giemsa and Rosenfeld. But I think that if you don't have any other matherial ou can try they if the smears had good staining quality.
Thanks very much, Carolina. This is exactly what I was wondering about. I.e. whether the same smears used for diagnosis, involving a quick-staining method (in "my" case, Hemacolor), would be also suitable in the longer term for sophisticated morphological study of parasites. I am thinking of suggesting to the people concerned that they should use Giemsa instead of Hemacolor, to be on the safe side.
If it is possible it is always recomended to use Giemsa instead of quick-staining methods. The parasites stain much better with Giemsa, and all the structures will be visible and distinguishable.
Yes, indeed. I have never used a quick-staining method. If someone like veterinarian needs to make a diagnosis without delay, that is a different situation.
Totally. If you need any help with any kind of staining proccess just let me know.
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