Different fixative solutions in the detection of mast cells in the canine and feline reproductive organs.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the usability of different fixative fluids in the detection of mast cells in ovaries and uteri of female dogs and cats. Samples were fixed in 4% formaldehyde, Carnoy's fluid, Mota's basic lead acetate and isotonic formaldehyde-acetic acid (IFAA). Mast cells (MCs) were detected by acidified toluidine blue staining and counted for various parts of the ovaries and uteri. In the ovaries of both species, the numbers of MCs were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in Carnoy than in formalin. No significant differences were found between Carnoy and Mota (tested only in cats). In the uterus, numbers of MCs were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in Carnoy, Mota and IFAA compared to formalin (canine endometrium, feline endometrium and feline myometrium), in Carnoy and Mota compared to formalin (canine myometrium) and in Mota compared to IFAA (feline myometrium). The majority of MCs were formalin-sensitive in the canine and feline uterus, in the canine ovary and in the feline cortex ovarii. In the feline medulla ovarii, the majority of MCs were formalin-resistant. No formalin-resistant MCs were detected in the feline tunica albuginea ovarii. Thus, using Mota's or Carnoy's fluid in the canine or feline female reproductive organs is recommended. This study improves methodology for all studies which clarify the role of MCs in the reproductive organs of the domestic and laboratory animals.