A Solution to the Problem of Refractory Cell Smears for Indirect Immunofluorescence

In our laboratory the indirect immunofluorescence test for measuring antibody is used extensively as a back-up for complement fixation and hemagglutination-inhibition serology results, for rapid diagnosis, and for IgM antibody determinations. In addition, it is our primary test for detecting antibodies to vaccinia, Colorado tick fever and Epstein-Barr viruses. At present, 41 different viral, chlamydial and rickettsial antigens for fluorescent antibody (FA) assays are prepared in the form of smears of infected cells (Emmons and Riggs 1977), requiring approximately 400 microscope slides each month.