One of the significant advances in microscopy is
the development of the phase microscope. Anything less than a mathematical
explanation of the principles involved would be inadequate. Therefore, the
interested reader is referred to the literature on this subject obtainable from
any of the leading manufacturers of laboratory optical equipment. Special
equipment is required consisting of phase contrast objectives and a set of
annular diaphragms for the special substage condenser.
The place of phase microscopy in diagnostic bacteriology is not yet established. The internal structure of cells, including microorganism, is so sharply revealed, however, as to rival the results obtained with the electron microscope. But at the present time it appears that practical applications are confined largely to the examination of tissue (tumor) cells, spermatozoa, urinary sediments, sputum, stomach and duodenal contents and feces, examined in wet preparations.
The place of phase microscopy in diagnostic bacteriology is not yet established. The internal structure of cells, including microorganism, is so sharply revealed, however, as to rival the results obtained with the electron microscope. But at the present time it appears that practical applications are confined largely to the examination of tissue (tumor) cells, spermatozoa, urinary sediments, sputum, stomach and duodenal contents and feces, examined in wet preparations.
