Knowledge Base › Troubleshooting Atlas › Reagents & safety
Alcohol carry-over diluting reagents
What it looks like
Dilution of staining intensity or uneven coloration on the slide.
Where it usually appears: Typically seen in sections where alcohol is used in processing or staining.
Likely causes
- Inadequate drying of slides before staining
- Residual alcohol in containers
- Improperly rinsed slides after alcohol processing
Immediate checks
- Check for residual alcohol on slides
- Inspect reagent containers for contamination
Corrective action
- Re-dry slides thoroughly before staining
- Replace contaminated reagents
Preventive action
- Ensure proper drying times for slides
- Implement routine checks for reagent contamination
This atlas is for educational purposes for laboratory professionals. It does not replace your institutional SOPs, manufacturer instructions, validated protocols or pathologist judgment. Adapt any action to your laboratory and equipment.
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