title: A method to render unstained mycobacterial smears safe for storage or shipment.
abstract: Sterilization and optimal staining of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum smears was accomplished by heating at 65 C for 30 min followed by exposure for 10 min to 10% formaldehyde fumes.
mesh_terms: D001431:Bacteriological Techniques; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005557:Formaldehyde; D005651:Fumigation; D006358:Hot Temperature; D008722:Methods; D009169:Mycobacterium tuberculosis / Q000254:growth & development; D013048:Specimen Handling; D013183:Sputum / Q000382:microbiology*; D013194:Staining and Labeling; D013242:Sterilization; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D005557:Formaldehyde