Kinyoun Kit - 1346

Laboratory kit for mycobacteria staining in histological samples to be examined by light and electron microscopy, allowing subsequent histological analyses. The use of this device must be combined with other recognized tests or methods in order to reach a definitive diagnosis.

Mycobacteria possess a unique cell wall rich in specific long-chain fatty acids known as mycolic acids. This characteristic differentiates mycobacteria from other organisms and explains their acid-alcohol resistance. Phenol allows penetration of the primary stain by acting on the structure of these mycolic acids; the stain is subsequently retained even after exposure to decolorizing agents such as acid-alcohol solutions.

A counterstain is used to better highlight the acid-alcohol resistant bacilli against the background.

With this method—which does not require hot staining with the development of harmful vapors typical of the Ziehl–Neelsen technique—acid-fast microorganisms appear red, while non-resistant microorganisms appear light blue.

Samples on which the staining may be performed include various biological fluids such as sputum, induced sputum, gastric aspirate, bronchial aspirates and bronchoalveolar lavages, urine, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, feces, and other body fluids.