BARBITONE CFT DILUENT TABLETS
Code: BR0016
Formula |
gm/litre |
Barbitone |
0.575 |
Sodium chloride |
8.5 |
Magnesium chloride |
0.168 |
Calcium chloride |
0.028 |
Barbitone soluble |
0.185 |
pH 7.2 ± 0.2 |
Directions
Dissolve 1 tablet in 100ml of warm distilled water.
Description
Complement fixation tests are extensively employed in the diagnosis of many
different diseases, including infections due to viruses as well as bacteria.
These tablets are intended for the simple and convenient preparation of the
special diluent for use in complement fixation tests. This diluent, a modification
of that described by Whillans1, is similar to the diluent employed
by Mayer et al2. It is superior to the physiological saline
formerly used because it contains calcium and magnesium, and is of the correct
pH for optimum results.
Mayer et al.2 investigated the effect of cations on the haemolytic
function of complement, by the addition of a number of substances to the veronal
buffered saline base. They were able to conclude:
i Some divalent cations, especially Mg++, are essential for the haemolytic
action of complement.
ii The haemolytic system does not contain sufficient Mg++ for optimal
haemolytic activity, so that a marked enhancement can be obtained by the addition
of extra Mg++. The enhancing effect of tissue fluids can be ascribed
to their contribution of Mg++.
iii The anticomplementary effect of some substances can be overcome by the addition
of extra Mg++.
iv Ca++ may also be essential to the haemolytic process but its action is much
less pronounced than that of Mg++.
The use of Oxoid Complement Fixation Test Diluent Tablets in a description of
complement fixation tests for virus diseases was recommended3,4.
Precaution
Barbitone is a registered narcotic drug and subject to control regulations
on transport, storage and records. See Hazchem precaution.
References
1 Whillans D. (1950) J. Clin. Path. 3. 57.
2 Mayer M. M. et al (1946) J. Exp. Med. 84. 535-548.
3 Bradstreet C. M. Patricia and Taylor C. E. D. (1962) Mon. Bull. Min. Hlth
Pub. Hlth Lab. Serv. 21. 96-104.
4 Fulton F. and Dumbell K. R. (1949) J. Gen. Microbiol. 3. 97.