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Ziehl–Neelsen [ZN] Microscopy
Learning ObjectivesThis page is an overview page for ZN Microscopy. May be developed along along the FM page: Fluorescence Microscopy Using LED Microscope | Knowledge Base (ntep.in)
Advantages, and principles of ZN Microscopy
In Ziehl-Neelsen microscopy, the carbol fuchsin fuchsin stain is heated to enable the dye to penetrate and bind the waxy mycobacterial cell wall. Following acid-decolourisation, the sputum smear is counterstained with methylene blue which stains the background material, providing a contrast blue colour against which the red AFB can be seen.
On observation under a microscope with oil immersion at 100X magnification, AFB appears as red, straight, or slightly curved rods, occurring singly or in small groups, while the rest of the background, mucoid and pus cells are stained blue in colour.
The method was initially developed by Paul Ehrlich and later modified by afterwards the Franz Ziehl and Friedrich Neelsen after whom the method is named.
Resources
- Laboratory Diagnosis by Sputum Smear Microscopy - The Handbook, GLI, 2013.
- Module for Laboratory Technicians, CTD, 2005.
Assessment
| Question | Answer 1 | Answer 2 | Answer 3 | Answer 4 | Correct answer | Correct explanation | Page id | Part of Pre-test | Part of Post-test |
| In ZN microcopy what is the stain used | Auramine | Carbol fucshin | Methylene blue | Potassium Permanganate | 2 | The stain used in ZN microscopy is Carbol Fucshin responsible for the reddish color of the bacteria. | | Yes | Yes |
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