The Histology and Ultrastructure of Cat Abdominal Paraganglia After Fixation and Localization with Glutaraldehyde/Potassium Dichromate

Abstract

Potassium dichromate is the compound used for the classical chromaffin reaction diagnostic of adrenal medullary cells. We recently described a technique which utilizes this catecholamine oxidizing agent for the purpose of tracing extra-adrenal chromaffin tissue (paraganglia) which is similar morphologically to that of the adrenal medulla. The action of potassium dichromate resulted in the cat paraganglia becoming brown due to the dichromate-catecholamine interaction. The organs were then easily visible as slender elongated structures extending along the abdominal aorta.