Immunohistochemistry and microwave decalcification of human temporal bones

Processing of human temporal bones is a long, expensive process and the res ulting celloidin sections are difficult to use for immunohistochemistry. We tested the ability of immunohistochemical assays to work in human temporal bones that were decalcified using a microwave oven. Tissue was trimmed to an approximate cube (1.5-2 cm/side) containing only the cochlea and immerse d in fresh EDTA with paraformaldehyde every 6 h. This sized block required 190-400 h to decalcify. The decalcified tissue was embedded in paraffin and sectioned. Sections were immunoassayed with anti-cytochrome c oxidase, ant i-neurofilament or anti-peripherin. All three antibodies labeled the approp riate structures. This procedure may stimulate advancement in the understan ding of human inner ear pathology. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All right s reserved.