Article: Answering your questions on anthrax stains, ergonomic workstations, glucose urine testing on children, site preparation for infant blood cultures, and contaminated urine cultures. (Tips from the clinical experts).

Anthrax stains

Q What is the best microscopy method for observing anthrax spores? Do the spores fluoresce under ultraviolet light?

A The spores of Bacillus anthracis do not fluoresce under ultraviolet light, but can be visualized by phase contrast microscopy or after staining with a spore stain. Most routine clinical laboratories (Level A) should not attempt to examine environmental samples (unknown powders suspected of containing anthrax spores) because the potential for aerosolization of the material is so great.

Your institution should have an emergency plan for handling reports of suspicious powders. If an emergency plan is not in place, ...

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