Abstract: A method for treating a human or animal cell sample (4) arranged on a slide (2) comprises dispensing treatment liquid onto the slide between the sample and the leading edge (5) of a cover tile (1) having a recess or cavity (6). The leading edge is bevelled and has an opening (13) into the cavity. Once dispensing is completed the method involves moving the tile over the slide to trap the liquid in the cavity. A small volume of sealing liquid in the form of evaporation inhibitor liquid, preferably mineral oil, is then applied to the slide preferably at the leading and trailing edges of the tile in a manner causing the evaporation inhibitor liquid to wick around the entire perimeter of the tile to form an airtight seal between the tile and slide around the cavity.

Abstract: Apparatus for treatment of human or animal cell samples on a microscopic slide includes an element having a recessed face defined by rails which are adapted to slide on surface of the slide. An opening at the leading edge of the element has a bevelled edge and provides access to a cavity formed between the face and the surface of the slide when the rails bear on the slide. The slide is tilted slightly and a vacuum nozzle is arranged at the lower edge of the slide. An end stop may be clamped to the end of the slide opposite to the end where the nozzle is located and has a bevelled edge complimentary to the bevelled edge of the element for closing the opening.