Manual of basic techniques for a health laboratory - libdoc.who.int

228 Manual of basic techniques for a health laboratory●●●ForcepsGauze padsEosin, 1% solution (reagent no. 23), if possible (otherwise, examine withoutstaining).6.3.2 MethodCollection of specimens1. Choose a rapidly developing patch of infected skin. Moisten it with a gauzepad dipped in the eosin solution (Fig. 6.5). Leave to dry for 1 minute. (Donot take the specimen if talcum powder has been used on the skin. Wash it offfirst.)2. Cut a strip of adhesive tape about 5cm long. Place it over the patch so that itoverlaps one edge (Fig. 6.6).3. Stick the tape on the skin and press firmly from one end to the other, passing atongue depressor or glass rod over it several times (Fig. 6.7).Pull the adhesive tape away with forceps. Place it immediately on a microscopeslide, sticky side down (Fig. 6.8).Fig. 6.5 Staining pityriasis versicolor-infected skin patcheswith eosinFig. 6.6 Applying adhesive tape to a skin patchFig. 6.7 Collecting a skin specimen