Abstract
The BD SurePath system has three types of preservative solution for the fixation and preservation of cells. The SurePath vial (Gyne) is used for gynecologic materials, whereas Cytorich red (Red) and Cytorich blue (Blue) are used for nongynecologic materials. Gyne and Red cause hemolysis and prevent protein coagulation, whereas Blue lacks any such ability. Regardless of gynecologic or nongynecologic material, minor blood contamination and the presence of protein cannot be judged by the naked eye. The purpose of this study was to investigate the hemolysis ability of three types of preservative solution used routinely. Because the hemolytic ability of Blue is weaker than those of Gyne and Red, erythrocytes do not completely hemolyze, and ghost erythrocytes and blood residues are smeared on the entire surface of a specimen. Therefore, it became clear that the number of smeared target cells was insufficient. Because Gyne and Red have hemolytic ability and include formaldehyde, protein coagulation is prevented by methylene bridge formation. However, because the formaldehyde level of Gyne is lower than that of Red, it became clear that its ability to prevent protein coagulation decreased over time. Therefore, long-term cell preservation in Gyne does not ensure that a sufficient number of target cells are smeared.
