title: Improved homogenization techniques for sputum cytology counts.
abstract: Liquefaction of sputum with dithiothreitol induces regular distribution of cells and facilitates total and differential counting without affecting morphology or staining characteristics. The reagent is cheap and stable. The process is predictable, reasonably quick and obviates the need for examination of multiple preparations, otherwise mandatory in quantitative studies of inflammatory conditions of the lower respiratory tract.
mesh_terms: D002452:Cell Count / Q000379:methods; D004229:Dithiothreitol / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D013183:Sputum / Q000166:cytology*; D013194:Staining and Labeling
chemical_list: D004229:Dithiothreitol