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. 1977 May;18(5):437-48.
doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0609.1977.tb02098.x.

Discrimination of B, T and null lymphocytes by esterase cytochemistry

K E Higgy, G F Burns, F G Hayhoe

Discrimination of B, T and null lymphocytes by esterase cytochemistry

K E Higgy et al. Scand J Haematol. 1977 May.

Abstract

A technique has been devised which optimally demonstrates non-specific esterase activity in human blood lymphocytes. The reaction is carried out on smears fixed with formalin vapour, using alpha-naphthol butyrate as substrate at pH 8 and at a low concentration for a short incubation period. The pattern of esterase activity revealed by this method provides a discriminating marker for mature T-lymphocytes, which show dense, localised, dot-like positivity, and a probable marker for 'null' cells in the form of scattered granular positivity. B cells appear to be negative. Monocytes show a clearly different pattern of granular positivity.

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