Description
Recent advances, particularly the improvement of antigen retrieval techniques for routinely processed sections, have propelled immunocytochemistry into the mainstream. Today, the demonstration of antigens in paraffin-wax processed sections has become essential for the diagnosis of a wide range of tumours. Nevertheless, there are pitfalls and UK NEQAS data shows that some laboratories are struggling to maintain standards. The increasing workload without the necessary increase in resources is often the cause, as technical staff have less time to develop appropriate methods. This paper describes robust protocols that should assist the immunocytochemist to overcome some of these difficulties.

