Determination of ABO antigens in fingernails using the APAAP (immunoalkaline phosphatase) technique.
Fingernail specimens with adherent nail-bed were taken from autopsy material with blood groups A, AB, B and O. Frozen 4-5-microns sections were submerged and floated carefully during each working step. Portions of fingernails were contaminated with blood and buccal cells, respectively. Furthermore, fingernail fragments of 8 volunteers were embedded in a biocomponent adhesive according to Grieve and Kotowski (Forensic Sci. Soc., 26 29-34) (1986) and cut by the usual microtome technique. APAAP staining is a proper method for demonstrating blood group antigens in fingernails from groove to margin. Frozen sections as well as smallest specimen embedded in a suitable adhesive are applicable for staining procedures. Using freshly prepared artificial stains, blood group constellations of red blood cells and/or buccal cells adherent on the surface of fingernails may be distinguished from the nail matrix.
Institute of Forensic Medicine, Wilhelm-Pieck-University Rostock, G.D.R.
R
R
Wegener
U
U
Bulnheim
D000017:ABO Blood-Group System / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007124:Immunoenzyme Techniques; D007519:Isoantigens / Q000032:analysis*; D009262:Nails / Q000276:immunology*
D000017:ABO Blood-Group System; D007519:Isoantigens